They need vitamins, minerals and amino acids that must come from non-grain feed ingredients. A starting mash containing approximately 22 percent protein is usually fed for the first six weeks. It is a good idea then to switch to an 18 to 20 percent broiler finisher until market time. The starter mash may contain an antibiotic for the first 10 days to help chicks get a good start. Cannibalism and Disease Control.
Birds are subject to cannibalism anytime they are confined, and often when they run free.
If possible, buy chicks that have been debeaked at the hatchery. If they have not been debeaked, watch for early signs of feather picking. Debeak birds before cannibalism becomes an established habit by clipping off the tip of the upper beak with a dog's toenail clipper or an electric debeaking machine. Always feed a coccidiostat in the ration throughout the growing period and keep the litter dry. Isolation from other birds and animals is also important.