Chickens are highly sensitive to cold weather. During the winter months, low temperatures can significantly impact their health and productivity. They may experience reduced growth rates, lower egg production, increased feed consumption, and a higher susceptibility to respiratory diseases. To help them cope with the cold, adding specific feed additives can improve their immunity and overall performance.
**Cod Liver Oil**
This supplement is rich in vitamins A and D, which play a crucial role in strengthening the immune system, improving eggshell quality, and enhancing resistance to cold stress. In winter, it can be used as an adjunct therapy for respiratory infections, helping to repair damaged mucous membranes and protect the respiratory tract from pathogens. It can be administered either in oil or water form and works well with other medications.
**Vitamin E**
Cold weather can negatively affect the reproductive performance of hens. Supplementing their diet with vitamin E helps boost ovarian function and increase egg production. For broilers, it improves cold tolerance and disease resistance. The recommended daily dose is 10 mg per kg of feed, with a possible increase of 2–6 times during winter.
**Vitamin C**
Known for its anti-infective, detoxifying, and anti-stress properties, vitamin C enhances chickens’ ability to withstand cold and illness. Adding 5 grams of vitamin C per 100 kg of feed can reduce feed intake by 8% and boost egg production by 7.6%. It’s especially beneficial during stressful periods like winter.
**Calcium**
Calcium deficiency can lead to soft-shelled eggs, muscle tremors, and even death in severe cases. Winter conditions, including lower temperatures and reduced light, increase calcium demands. Laying hens require 2.7–3.4 grams of calcium daily. Limestone powder is a cost-effective source, containing about 38% pure calcium, while shell powder has a higher concentration (up to 96%).
**Paprika**
Paprika is rich in carotene and essential vitamins. Including 1% chili powder in the diet during winter can improve cold resistance and increase egg production by up to 8%.
**Iodine**
Iodine helps regulate body temperature and supports cold resistance. You can add iodized salt at the same level as regular salt or include kelp in the feed—2–6% of the diet. Kelp also has a cooling effect, so pairing it with ginger can help balance this.
**Iron**
Iron deficiency weakens chickens’ ability to resist cold, especially in laying hens. Their diet should contain 35–45 mg of iron per kg. Iron supplementation is vital for maintaining energy levels and overall health during the colder months.
By incorporating these nutrients into your poultry’s diet, you can ensure better health, productivity, and resilience throughout the winter season.
Dehydrated Coriander,Dehydrated Coriander For Seasoning,Dehydrated Coriander For Cooking,Dehydrated Coriander Powder
Taizhou Shubenshu Food Co.,Ltd , https://www.lvweifoods.com