Laying hens need calcium supplementation at the beginning of laying
July 09 11:20:17, 2025
Calcium is a crucial nutrient for poultry, especially during different growth and production stages. During the breeding period, the calcium requirement is approximately 1%, which is sufficient to support the chicken's growth and development. Broiler chickens require less calcium, as it is mainly used for bone formation. However, once hens enter the laying phase, their calcium needs significantly increase due to eggshell formation. At this stage, the calcium content in feed should be around 3.5% to meet the demands of egg production.
If the calcium supply is inadequate, it can lead to slow growth, weak bones, and skeletal deformities. In severe cases, this may result in rickets or soft, brittle bones that are prone to breaking. On the other hand, excessive calcium intake can cause kidney damage, as excess calcium may deposit in the kidneys, impairing their function and leading to gout in chickens.
The timing of calcium supplementation is also important. A gradual transition in calcium levels helps reduce stress on the birds' systems, especially the digestive tract. It is recommended to start increasing calcium content about two weeks before the expected onset of egg production (around 18 weeks of age). The exact timing can be adjusted based on the flock’s condition.
In the early laying phase, young hens (22–40 weeks old) need adequate calcium for eggshell formation. If the utilization rate of calcium is around 60%, the daily calcium requirement per hen increases with the egg production rate. For example, when the egg production rate reaches 70%, each chicken needs at least 2.6 grams of calcium per day. This amount increases to 2.7g, 3.0g, and 3.3g when the rate is 80%, 90%, and 100%, respectively. To ensure optimal eggshell quality, it is essential to provide enough calcium, even if some hens are not fully productive yet.
The timing of calcium intake also matters. The best time for calcium consumption is in the afternoon, as this is when the eggshell is formed. Large-grained calcium carbonate should be provided freely during this time. Additionally, a small portion of calcium can be offered at night, such as shell powder or 10–15g of calcium carbonate granules mixed into the feed or placed in the trough for free access.
When supplementing calcium, several precautions should be taken. First, the addition of limestone should be moderate to avoid diarrhea. Calcium levels should be increased gradually as egg production rises, typically by 0.5% per week. Second, the calcium-to-phosphorus ratio must be balanced, and vitamin D supplements like cod liver oil or vitamin D3 powder can help improve calcium absorption. Third, minimizing stress is key, as factors like overcrowding, noise, and high temperatures can interfere with calcium uptake. Maintaining proper ventilation, lighting, and space will help ensure better calcium utilization and overall health.
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