- Aug 8, 2013
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I understand what you're saying, but 20% protein is way too much for an adult hen when she isn't molting. I encourage layer feed for adult hens.It can be a good idea.
Feeding them the non-medicated chick starter at any age is absolutely fine. There is nothing in that feed that would be bad for a roo or hen, young or old. Medicated would be a problem but the non-medicated is absolutely fine. I feed a non-medicated chick starter to my entire flock. People will do this for a number of different reasons based on their farming goals as it has a higher protein. I personally do it because I also feed fodder which has a lower protein so a high protein feed works great for me. I also have a mixed flock with different ages and breeds and not all lay frequently so a layer does not fit the needs of all birds. A starter > grower > layer can be great if that fits your flock but it is not the only option and is not great for all situations. I just think its good to know there are numerous right answers when it comes to feeding and to understand what each feed is. They aren't that different from one another so you do not have to stress about changing over at exactly a right time in most cases.
Medicated starter = babies ONLY and is a optional choice
Non-medicated starter = generally 20-22% protein. Generally feed to young birds but fine for all ages (layers will need an external calcium source)
Grower/All Flock/Flock raiser = generally 18-20% protein. Generally feed to teens or mixed flocks but fine for all ages (layers will need an external calcium source)
Layer = generally 16% protein plus calcium for layers. Laying birds only
Oyster shell = calcium source. If you are feeding layer feed it is not necessary as they are already getting extra calcium. If calcium is separate from feed birds will eat as needed. If it is mixed in they do not have this option which is way feeding layer to young birds for an extended period of time can lead to calcium overdoses. This is why people who have mixed flocks do oyster + grower feed. The young birds will not eat the oyster if it is kept separate