Understanding Medicated Feeds – Protecting Your Chicks from Disease

Raising healthy chicks starts with proper nutrition and disease prevention. Medicated feeds play a crucial role in safeguarding young poultry from common illnesses. In this blog, we'll delve into the benefits of medicated feeds and highlight the options available at Bloomington Farm & Feed.

What Are Medicated Feeds?

Medicated feeds contain specific medications that help prevent diseases in poultry, most commonly coccidiosis—a parasitic infection that can be fatal to young birds.

Benefits of Using Medicated Starter Feeds

• Disease Prevention: Medicated feeds help control the spread of coccidia parasites, reducing the risk of infection.

• Healthy Growth: By preventing illness, chicks can focus their energy on growing strong and healthy.

• Easy Administration: Providing medication through feed ensures consistent intake without the need for manual dosing.

Our Medicated Feed Options

We offer high-quality medicated starter feeds from Heim Feed Mill:

• 20% Chick Starter-Grower Crumble (Medicated): This feed is formulated with 20% protein to support rapid growth and contains medication to prevent coccidiosis. The crumble form is ideal for young chicks, making it easy for them to eat.

• 24% Game Bird Grower Crumble (Medicated): For those raising game birds, this feed offers 24% protein and medication to protect against disease during the grower stage.

• 30% Game Bird Starter Crumble (Medicated): Designed for the initial stages of game bird development, this high-protein feed supports early growth while providing disease prevention.

When to Use Medicated Feeds

• First Weeks of Life: Begin feeding medicated starter feed as soon as the chicks arrive to protect them during their most vulnerable period.

• High-Risk Environments: If coccidiosis has been a problem in the past, medicated feeds can help prevent outbreaks.

Transitioning Off Medicated Feeds

• Age-Based Transition: Typically, chicks can be switched to non-medicated grower feeds after 6-8 weeks, depending on the species and risk factors.

• Monitor Health: Observe your flock for any signs of illness when transitioning feeds and consult a veterinarian if needed.

Using medicated feeds is an effective strategy to protect your chicks from common diseases and ensure they grow into healthy adults. Visit Bloomington Farm & Feed to find the right medicated feeds for your flock's needs.