In order to provide the best nutrition for chickens, you must choose a feed that contains essential nutrients. There are various types of feeds available, each with their own specific composition. They also differ in cost and availability. You can purchase these feeds from local feed stores. To choose the right feed for your chickens, consider the following information:
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Table 4 outlines typical feeding programs for chickens
Typical feeding programs for chickens include supplemental scratch grain and prepared layers feed. Scratch grains should be provided in limited amounts as they can dilute the nutrient content of the prepared diet.
Table 5 lists common feeds
There are many common chicken farm feeds available. It is important to choose a feed that is rich in the right nutrients, which are important for the health and production of your flock. Poultry have different nutritional requirements than humans. They do not manufacture many of the amino acids they need, so they must be provided in their feed. The most common limiting amino acid is methionine, so you must ensure that the feed you choose contains this essential amino acid. Methionine can be obtained from sources like sunflower or fish meal.
Table 7 lists sources of protein
Protein is the most expensive feed material, but it is also essential for growing poultry. Chickens require a high protein diet for growth and egg production, and protein from animal sources is more effective at promoting growth than protein from grains. However, protein in excess can be harmful to poultry of any age. Another important feed ingredient is carbohydrates. Grain products contain carbohydrates, which are the source of energy and fuel. However, excess carbohydrates can form fat.
Table 9 lists omega 3 and 6 fatty acids
There are three main types of fatty acids – omega 3, omega 6, and omega 9. The term polyunsaturated refers to fatty acids with more than one cis double bond. Fatty acids with fewer than 18 carbon atoms are short-chain fatty acids, while those with more than 20 have long-chain fatty acids.
Table 11 lists magnesium
Mg is an important mineral for chickens and the amount of Mg in their feed varies. High levels of Mg can cause health problems in broilers. Supplementing feeds with Mg at low levels, ranging from 0.3%, may be more beneficial.
Table 12 lists potassium
Potassium is an essential mineral for the growth and health of chickens. It is found in marine and animal feeds. Liver meal is a particularly potent source. The recommended daily allowance for young animals is five to ten milligrams. The ration should include at least five milligrams of vitamin D.
