The main difference between scratch grains and layer feed is the protein content because of the difference in the ingredients.
The scratch I give my hens for treats is only 3 grains, ( wheat, oats, cracked corn ) and the protein is only 8%.
My layer mash contains numerous ingredients and contains 18% protein. Healthy hens need a minimum of 16% protein.
Some treats I give like black oil sunflower seeds and dry cat feed have around 30% protein. Feeding too much scratch, reduces the total amount of protein being consumed.
What works best for me is to combine 3 equal parts of scratch grains, sunflower seeds, and dry cat feed, thus the end result of the combination is a little over 22% and keeps the protein level up for the daily consumption.
bigzio
The scratch I give my hens for treats is only 3 grains, ( wheat, oats, cracked corn ) and the protein is only 8%.
My layer mash contains numerous ingredients and contains 18% protein. Healthy hens need a minimum of 16% protein.
Some treats I give like black oil sunflower seeds and dry cat feed have around 30% protein. Feeding too much scratch, reduces the total amount of protein being consumed.
What works best for me is to combine 3 equal parts of scratch grains, sunflower seeds, and dry cat feed, thus the end result of the combination is a little over 22% and keeps the protein level up for the daily consumption.
bigzio
