Choosing the right starter feed is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when raising chicks. One of the biggest choices new poultry keepers face is medicated vs. non-medicated starter feed. While both provide the essential nutrients chicks need for early growth and development, they differ in their approach to disease prevention.
At Stellar Game Birds, we choose to use a non-GMO, unmedicated starter feed because we believe in a natural, holistic approach to poultry care. However, we recognize that every flock is different, and the right choice depends on your farm setup, disease risk, and management style. This guide will break down the pros and cons of each option so you can make the best decision for your birds.
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What is Medicated Starter Feed?
Medicated chick starter contains amprolium, a drug that helps prevent coccidiosis, a deadly disease caused by microscopic intestinal parasites called coccidia. These parasites are present in nearly all environments, but young chicks with undeveloped immune systems are particularly vulnerable.
Key Facts About Medicated Starter Feed
- Contains Amprolium – Helps prevent coccidiosis but does not treat active infections.
- Does Not Contain Antibiotics – Contrary to common belief, amprolium is not an antibiotic but a thiamine blocker that slows down coccidia reproduction.
- Recommended in High-Risk Environments – Large-scale hatcheries, high-density brooders, and places where coccidia exposure is likely.
- Not Always Needed – If chicks are vaccinated for coccidiosis, medicated feed is unnecessary (it can even interfere with the vaccine).
When to Use Medicated Feed
- If your chicks are not vaccinated for coccidiosis.
- If you are raising chicks in a brooder or confined space with bedding that stays damp.
- If you have a history of coccidiosis outbreaks on your farm.
- If you’re raising a large flock with limited access to fresh pasture.
When to Avoid Medicated Feed
- If your chicks are vaccinated for coccidiosis, as medicated feed can make the vaccine less effective.
- If you prefer a natural approach and want chicks to build their immunity gradually.
- If your brooder is kept clean, dry, and well-managed, reducing coccidiosis risk.
What is Non-Medicated Starter Feed?
Non-medicated starter feed provides all the essential nutrients chicks need without the addition of amprolium. It is commonly used in flocks where coccidiosis prevention is managed through vaccination, natural immunity building, or holistic care.
Key Facts About Non-Medicated Starter Feed
- Contains No Amprolium or Medications – Ideal for chicks that are already vaccinated for coccidiosis.
- Supports Natural Immunity Development – Encourages gradual exposure to coccidia in a controlled environment.
- Works Well in Low-Risk Environments – Suitable for small flocks, pastured birds, and clean brooder setups.
- Preferred for Natural, Non-GMO, or Organic Flocks – Many small farms, including ours, choose non-GMO, unmedicated starter feed for a holistic approach to poultry health.
When to Use Non-Medicated Feed
- If chicks are vaccinated for coccidiosis at the hatchery.
- If you manage your brooder well, keeping it clean, dry, and spacious to reduce parasite buildup.
- If you prefer a natural, non-GMO, or organic approach to poultry raising.
- If your chicks have early access to soil or pasture, allowing them to build natural immunity gradually.
When to Avoid Non-Medicated Feed
- If you have had previous coccidiosis outbreaks and want an added layer of protection.
- If you are raising chicks in high-density conditions where exposure to coccidia is unavoidable.
- If your environment tends to be warm, humid, and hard to keep dry, as these conditions favor coccidia growth.
Comparing Medicated vs. Non-Medicated Starter Feed
Our Choice: Why We Use Non-GMO, Unmedicated Starter Feed
At Stellar Game Birds, Poultry, Waterfowl LLC, we believe in raising our birds as naturally as possible, which is why we choose a high-quality, non-GMO, unmedicated starter feed. Our chicks are introduced to soil early and raised in clean, well-managed brooders to encourage strong, natural immunity.
We’ve found that:
- With proper brooder management, natural exposure to coccidia builds lasting resistance.
- A high-quality non-GMO starter supports strong growth without unnecessary additives.
- Chicks raised on non-medicated feed transition well to pasture and free-range systems.
However, we also recognize that every farm and flock is different, and medicated feed can be a valuable tool in certain situations.
Final Thoughts: Which Feed is Right for You?
The choice between medicated and non-medicated starter feed depends on your management style, risk factors, and personal preference. If coccidiosis is a known issue in your area, medicated feed may be a good preventive measure. If you prefer a natural approach and have a controlled brooding environment, non-medicated feed can be just as effective.
Key Takeaways:
- If using medicated feed, don’t mix it with vaccinated chicks for coccidiosis.
- Clean, dry brooders and gradual soil exposure are key to preventing coccidiosis naturally.
- Both feeds provide essential nutrients; the main difference is coccidiosis prevention.
Whatever choice you make, ensuring your chicks receive proper care, clean water, and high-quality feed is the most important part of raising a healthy, thriving flock!
