Nutrition – The Key To A Healthy Emu
A question was asked about what feed is best for an emu. Emus have a very short digestive system. What is eaten and not absorbed, is eliminated within 6-8 hours. This is very different from most birds and animals that take 30-80 hours for elimination to occur. Because of this rapidly moving digestive system, emus require a lower fiber feed of only 5-8% in order for the nutrition to be fully absorbed. Fiber tends to bind the nutrients. A higher fiber feed would prevent the nutrients from being absorbed before they are eliminated from the emus body. Too high of a fiber content could actually cause an emu to die of starvation, even though it seemed to be eating plenty of feed.
In a pinch, Wild Game Bird Feed (under 24% protein) can be used as a complete emu feed. It is readily available through most feed companies. It is high in protein, lower in fiber and fairly well balanced for emus. It contains no antibiotics and the vitamins and minerals that are used, are more the organic type rather than using less digestible minerals and synthetic vitamins. Preferably, a custom made feed formula from grains found in your area would be the most ideal. The nutritional value does not change, whether the feed is ground as a mash, crumbled or pelleted.
There is an interactive “Feed Formulator” EXCEL disc or thumb drive, that shows the parameters for using various feed ingredients to create the optimum emu ration. The “Feed Formulator” can be purchased from Emu Today & Tomorrow (ET&T) for $25.00 plus $9.00 shipping. There is a discount for American Emu Association members. To order phone ET&T: (580) 628-2933.
The AEA Pre-Mix Formula used in the “Feed Formulator” can be purchased in 50 pound bags from Renaissance Feed, 339 Frederick Rd., Roaring Spring, PA 16673, Phone – 814-793-2113. A breakdown of the Pre-Mix Formula, if it is not included with the “”Feed Formulator”, can be obtained from ET&T.