Laying hens need calcium supplementation at the beginning of laying
July 09 11:21:11, 2025
Calcium is a critical nutrient for poultry, especially during different stages of their life cycle. During the breeding period, the calcium requirement is generally around 1%, which is sufficient to support the growth and development of the chickens. Broiler chickens, on the other hand, require less calcium since it's mainly used for bone development. However, once hens enter the laying phase, their calcium needs increase significantly due to the formation of eggshells. At this stage, the calcium content in feed should be raised to about 3.5% to meet the increased demand. It’s important to gradually adjust the calcium levels as the hens transition into the laying period to avoid stress on their systems.
Insufficient calcium in the diet can lead to slow growth, weak bones, and skeletal deformities. In severe cases, it may result in rickets or soft, brittle bones that are prone to breaking. On the flip side, excessive calcium can cause kidney damage, leading to issues like gout due to impaired uric acid excretion. Therefore, maintaining an appropriate balance is essential for the health and productivity of the flock.
The timing of calcium supplementation is also crucial. A gradual transition is recommended to allow the chickens’ bodies to adapt. Typically, calcium levels should start increasing from around 18 weeks of age, two weeks before the expected onset of egg production. The exact timing can be adjusted based on the condition and performance of the flock.
In the early stages of laying (22–40 weeks), the calcium requirement varies depending on the egg production rate. For example, when the egg production rate reaches 70%, each hen needs at least 2.6 grams of calcium daily. This amount increases to 2.7g, 3.0g, and 3.3g per day as the production rate climbs to 80%, 90%, and 100%, respectively. To ensure optimal eggshell quality, it’s advisable to provide calcium at the level corresponding to peak production, which is typically 3.3g per chicken per day.
The best time for calcium intake is in the afternoon, as eggshells are formed during this period. Large-grained calcium carbonate should be offered freely in the afternoon to ensure direct deposition into the eggshells without needing to draw from the bird’s own bones. Additionally, some calcium can be provided at night by mixing shell powder or calcium carbonate granules into the feed or placing them in the trough for free access.
When supplementing calcium, several precautions should be taken. First, the amount of limestone powder added should be moderate to avoid digestive issues such as diarrhea. The calcium level should be increased gradually as the egg production rate rises, usually by about 0.5% per week. Second, the calcium-to-phosphorus ratio should be monitored, and vitamin D sources like cod liver oil or vitamin D3 powder can be included in the feed to enhance calcium absorption. Third, minimizing stress factors—such as overcrowding, noise, and high temperatures—is essential, as these can interfere with calcium uptake and utilization.
By carefully managing calcium levels and timing, poultry producers can ensure healthy, productive flocks while avoiding common nutritional pitfalls.
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