Application of Vitamins in Layer Chicken Farming

Application of Vitamins in Layer Chicken Farming

Blog Article

Vitamins in poultry farming are divided into two main categories: fat-soluble and water-soluble. Fat-soluble vitamins include vitamins A, D, E, and K, while water-soluble vitamins primarily consist of B-complex vitamins and vitamin C. Fat-soluble vitamins dissolve in fats and require oils for absorption but can be toxic if overdosed. Water-soluble vitamins, on the other hand, dissolve in water and excess amounts are generally expelled through the excretory system, reducing the risk of toxicity. In layer chicken farming, it’s essential to select specific vitamins based on different conditions to achieve optimal results.(compound vitamin& antibiotic powder)

1. Vitamin A
Vitamin A has several key roles in poultry health:

It maintains mucosal cells, aiding in the recovery of respiratory and digestive systems during illnesses like enteritis and respiratory infections.
It promotes pigment formation, supporting vision and preventing night blindness.
It assists in the absorption of vitamin D and is crucial in bone health, maintaining the balance of bone-forming and bone-resorbing cells, which is essential for calcium mobilization during eggshell formation.(vitamins premix)
2. Vitamin D
Vitamin D primarily promotes the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, essential for eggshell formation. It works synergistically with vitamin A and boosts immunity. Fish oil, rich in vitamins A and D, is commonly used when chickens show poor eggshell quality or feathering. Feed-grade fish oil or vitamin D supplements can be added to feed or water, depending on farm needs.

3. Vitamin E
Vitamin E, known as tocopherol, is crucial for reproductive health, enhancing egg production, fertility, and hatchability. It is often added when production decreases due to infection or as a supplement in later egg-laying stages to prolong peak production. Sodium selenite and vitamin E combinations, available in powder form for feed or water, are frequently used to boost immune responses.(feed additive)

4. Vitamin K
Vitamin K promotes blood clotting, which is beneficial in situations like beak trimming to prevent excessive bleeding. It also helps reduce mortality during outbreaks of coccidiosis, particularly in young or growing chickens.