Layer Mash @20+% Protein

[anthonyjames]

I am using a Chick Starter Formula for my chicks. I see the Protein is about 18%. My local mill sells layer mash with 20%+ protein.

What is the difference and can I replace with the layer mash?

Also, do chickens go in water? I was thinking of setting up a small bathing hole in the far end of their run if they are like other birds and like to bath.

 

[Teach97]

there is a difference...often the chick has a medication added to precent cocci. Also it is more formulated along the needs of a growing chick (mine has a higher protein than that)...layer is aimed at egg production and contains some stuff that can actually stunt chicks and not allow them to develop properly. but again my layer has a lower protein than yours.

Chickens will go in water but they usually prefer a dust bath...DE is a good additive to that

 

[Judy]

Starter up to 6 or 8 weeks, then grower to point of lay (around 20 weeks,) then layer. Don't feed layer to young chicks. It has more calcium than they can handle and is harmful

Chickens cannot swim. Their feathers fill with water and they drown. But some do like to wade in hot weather.

Here are links to several threads you should find useful:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?pid=1198