Detailed Explanation of the Reasons for and Precautions on Feed Restriction in Growing Laying Hens

In the process of raising laying hens, hens from 7 to 18 weeks of age are in the growing period. During this period, laying hens grow faster, their muscles and bones develop more quickly, and their body weight increases rapidly; it is also an important period before they enter the laying period. However, during this period, farmers need to carry out feed restriction. What is the reason for this? Let us find out together.

1. Reasons for feed restriction in growing laying hens

The main reason for restricting feed in growing laying hens is to prevent excessively fast growth during this period, which can cause them to be overweight, to maintain a normal and healthy growth rate for the body, and to avoid premature maturity. If this is not controlled, it will have a great impact on the later laying rate of the hens. Therefore, feed restriction is necessary, as it helps increase the laying rate, reduces feed consumption, and lowers breeding costs.

2. Methods of feed restriction for laying hens

Feed restriction for laying hens is not only about reducing the feed supply; attention must also be paid to the rational matching of feed, especially limiting energy and protein levels. Generally, there are several specific feed restriction methods: first, weekly feed restriction, that is, stopping feeding for one to two days a week; second, time-based feed restriction, which generally means feeding two days' worth of feed within one day; quantity-based feed restriction, which generally can reduce feed intake to 90% of the original level, but care must be taken that the weekly weight gain is not lower than the standard body weight; fourth, quality-based feed restriction, feeding feed that is low in energy, low in protein content, and low in amino acid content.

3. Timing of feed restriction and precautions

Feed restriction for growing laying hens is generally carried out from 8 to 40 weeks of age until it ends at 17 to 18 weeks of age. Farmers begin feed restriction after flock grouping, and during the feed restriction period, sufficient feeders and waterers must be provided. If vaccination or disease factors occur during the feed restriction period, the restriction should be stopped immediately to avoid affecting the growth and development of the laying hens. During feed restriction, it is best to insist on sampling and weighing the flock every week to monitor the results of feed restriction and then adjust the feed ratio reasonably.

  The above is an introduction to the reasons for and precautions on feed restriction in growing laying hens. We hope it can help you. To learn more related knowledge, please stay tuned to us.