- Feb 26, 2008
- 827
- 4
- 151
It seems like every other day there is a post on here with a newbie having problems with shavings. I've never used them because of problems with eating them, craw impaction, dust, moisture and at one time it seemed like noone used shavings, but now it seems like it's the only option anyone is aware of. Does anyone besides me use something other than shavings to make the newcomers aware of?
I prefer corn cob litter, but its gotten a little pricey, but for a few chicks it isn't expensive at all. I tend to raise 50, or so at the time though and its still worth it to me. One and a half fifty lb bags covers a brooder that is about 10-12 ft in diameter. It doesn't have to be changed often either because of the excellent drainage.
I haven't used pine pellets, but have seen them at TSC and they look like a good option, but they probably still hold a good deal of moisture compared to something that drains like cob litter.
I would use sand over pine shavings. There is a small risk of craw impaction, but it is more natural than shavings and the risk isn't as high. It offers really good drainage, which is something alot of people don't realize the importance of with chicks. Moisture will kill them early on quicker than almost anything. Its important their environment stay dry.
I prefer corn cob litter, but its gotten a little pricey, but for a few chicks it isn't expensive at all. I tend to raise 50, or so at the time though and its still worth it to me. One and a half fifty lb bags covers a brooder that is about 10-12 ft in diameter. It doesn't have to be changed often either because of the excellent drainage.
I haven't used pine pellets, but have seen them at TSC and they look like a good option, but they probably still hold a good deal of moisture compared to something that drains like cob litter.
I would use sand over pine shavings. There is a small risk of craw impaction, but it is more natural than shavings and the risk isn't as high. It offers really good drainage, which is something alot of people don't realize the importance of with chicks. Moisture will kill them early on quicker than almost anything. Its important their environment stay dry.
Last edited: