Chickens Growing Slowly or Developing Poor-Quality Feathers? IPB University Expert: Don’t Rush to Give Them Vitamins
Proper feed is key to supporting poultry growth, health, and appearance quality. Dr Widya Hermana, a poultry nutrition expert from IPB University, emphasized that feed must be adjusted to the animals’ age and physiological needs, rather than simply considering its price or quantity.
The lecturer at the Department of Nutrition and Feed Technology, Faculty of Animal Science, IPB University, explained that energy and protein are the main components of poultry feed. However, fat, fiber, vitamins, and minerals must also be provided in sufficient amounts to meet the animals’ needs.
“Each type of livestock has its own requirements. These requirements must, of course, be adjusted to the animals’ physiological conditions and the production targets to be achieved,” she said in an interview with OenggasTV some time ago.
According to her, young chickens have different nutritional requirements from adult chickens. Protein deficiency, particularly during the growth stage, can delay growth and extend the time required to harvest broiler chickens.
Vitamins Are Not Necessary Every Day
Dr Widya explained that feed formulated to be complete and meet livestock nutritional requirements generally already contains the necessary vitamins. Therefore, providing additional supplements every day may not be necessary.
“If the feed producer has already formulated the feed to meet the animals’ needs, additional (vitamins every day) should not be necessary,” she said.
She advised against excessive vitamin supplementation. Although each vitamin plays an important role and works in conjunction with others, vitamin intake must be tailored to the animals’ needs. Dosages must follow the instructions provided on the product packaging.
Fat soluble vitamins (vitamins A, D, E, and K) can be stored in the body, whereas water soluble vitamins (vitamins B and C) are generally more easily excreted.
Essential for Feather Growth, Color, and Vocal Performance
For ornamental poultry enthusiasts, adequate protein intake is also important for supporting feather growth and overall performance. Dr Widya explained that amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein, serve specific functions in poultry.
“If you want your ornamental birds to look their best, don’t focus solely on color or supplements. Start with the basics: their feed,” she said.
She encouraged novice poultry keepers to learn from experienced breeders and expand their knowledge by reading scientific journals and magazines to improve their feeding practices. (Fj) (IAAS/HRD)
