POULTRY

You may also consider one of medicated crumble. Crumble’s main purpose is to protect against one of the called coccidiosis, which can affect all chicks and young poultry. Coccidiousis is dangerous and life threatening for birds who have yet to build up an immunity.
Medicated crumble reduces the risk of coccidiosis because it contains small levels of Amprolium, helping poultry to develop an immunity against coccidiosis. This type of feed may also contain hormones.
Vaccines also exist against various diseases like coccidiosis.
Medicated crumble is mainly given to unvaccinated chicks and is a personal choice.
Vaccines against coccidiosis and other types of diseases are often given to chicks at an early stage by the breeder, veterinary services or hatchery. Vaccines do not protect 100% birds from contracting a disease or virus.

Pellets and specialised mix are available for second age and mature birds.
Mixed grain feed is sometimes referred to as scratch grain. When the bird is on pellet feed, scratch grain can represent more or less 10% of their daily intake including vegetable and fruit scraps. Mixed grain can be soaked overnight, sprouted or fermented, increasing their digestibility.
When fermenting, avoid using sunflower and alfalfa type seeds as they tend to go slimy. Access to grass and vegetation can be especially important to some species.

Birds have a specific digestive system and use grit to be able to correctly break up and digest their food. They store the grit in their gizzard. Grit exists in different sizes and chosen according to the age and size of the bird.

Calcium should be available to laying poultry at all times. It is preferable that the calcium offered (usually found as crushed oyster shells) be in a separate feeder. Roosters do not need this and cannot eliminate the excess of calcium. It can cause them irreparable harm. If you have a mixed flock it is better to choose a food, usually described as All Flock, that is low on calcium and appropriate for all mature ages.

Vitamins, pro and prebiotics are usually water soluble or in a powdered format and can be given to the birds through their drinking water or sprinkled on their food. The frequency is according to the season, age, breed and physical health of the bird. Dosing and frequency is usually specified in the instructions for use. Water containers need to be refreshed daily especially during hot weather and when there is an additive.