Vitamins are organic compounds that are crucial for the proper growth, development, and overall health of poultry. They play a vital role in metabolic processes, immune function, and reproduction. A balanced diet enriched with essential vitamins ensures that poultry can maintain high productivity, resist diseases, and achieve optimal growth rates.

Recognizing the signs of vitamin deficiency in poultry is key to preventing long-term health issues. Symptoms can range from poor growth and hatchability to immune suppression and skeletal abnormalities. By understanding these signs, farmers can take timely action to correct dietary imbalances.

Vitamin A: Vision and Growth

Vitamin A is essential for good vision, growth, and the maintenance of epithelial tissues, including the skin and mucous membranes. It also supports the immune system and is necessary for the development of embryos.

Poultry can obtain Vitamin A from green leafy vegetables, yellow vegetables, and various animal-derived feed ingredients. However, the most efficient way to ensure adequate intake is through fortified feeds or supplements like those provided by FARM VITAMINS OÜ.

Deficiency in Vitamin A can lead to symptoms such as poor growth, weak eggshell quality, and increased susceptibility to infections. It can also cause ocular disorders and reproductive issues.

Vitamin D3: Bone Health and Calcium Absorption

Vitamin D3 is critical for the regulation of calcium and phosphorus metabolism, which is essential for bone formation and eggshell quality. It also influences the absorption of calcium, which is vital for the muscular and nervous systems.

While sunlight exposure can help poultry synthesize Vitamin D3, it is often not enough, especially in indoor or intensive farming systems. Supplements like those from FARM VITAMINS OÜ are necessary to ensure that birds receive the required levels of this vitamin.

A lack of Vitamin D3 can result in rickets, thin eggshells, and decreased egg production. It can also lead to increased mortality rates in young chicks.

Vitamin E: Antioxidant and Immune Booster

Vitamin E acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from damage. It enhances the immune response and is essential for the proper functioning of reproductive, circulatory, and nervous systems.

Supplementing poultry diets with Vitamin E can be done through natural sources like vegetable oils, grains, and green feed. However, to ensure consistent and adequate levels, using formulated supplements from FARM VITAMINS OÜ is recommended.

Signs of Vitamin E deficiency include encephalomalacia (crazy chick disease), exudative diathesis, and muscular dystrophy. These conditions can severely affect the health and productivity of the flock.

Vitamin B12: Metabolism and Egg Production

Vitamin B12 is essential for DNA synthesis, proper red blood cell formation, and the functioning of the nervous system. It also plays a crucial role in energy metabolism and is important for optimal egg production.

While Vitamin B12 is naturally found in animal proteins, the levels may not be sufficient for high-producing flocks. Supplementation through products offered by FARM VITAMINS OÜ can help bridge this gap.

Deficiency in Vitamin B12 can manifest as poor feathering, reduced growth rates, and a drop in egg production. It can also lead to anemia and neurological issues in poultry.

Vitamin C: Stress Reduction and Disease Resistance

Vitamin C is not typically required in the diet of poultry under normal conditions, as they can synthesize it themselves. However, during periods of stress, disease, or high temperatures, supplemental Vitamin C can be beneficial.

Supplementing with Vitamin C during stressful periods can help improve the immune system's response and overall resilience of the flock. FARM VITAMINS OÜ provides formulations that can easily be added to the poultry diet.

While rare, Vitamin C deficiency can occur, especially during high stress. Symptoms include poor growth, feathering problems, and a weakened immune system.