When to change foods?

[ChickenCanoe]

If you only feed grower or some other chicken feed they don't need grit because the grain in it is already ground.
If you feed scratch or other things that need to be ground up they need grit.
If they are out foraging where there is sand and small pebbles, they'll get all the grit they need.

 

[cocopop]

Have you ever fed any grains to our chicks? I am glad I saw your post because i was feeding my 3 month old chick grains and layer crumbles. Seems to be doing fine but I am new as well. The breeder I got it from said she feeds layer crumbles and grains. Hmmm well better switch back to chick starter for a couple more weeks.

 

[ChickenCanoe]

Growing birds on 4% calcium can get kidney damage.
Commercial laying houses that switch to layer too soon lose large numbers of birds.
A meal of it here and there won't hurt but 4% of total intake is too much.

 

[farmgirl277]

Thanks Guys! And I'm glad my question helped someone else!! I like to give my chickens treats (so that I am the treat lady!) and they don't have acess to they yard, just their run. So I will be giving them some grit

 

[cocopop]

Thanks for the info ChickenCanoe