apple cider vinegar in their water

[aldarita]

I am new to chickens (one year and a half) and reading BYC last year I started giving ACV to my pullets every day. I also keep regular water for them so they have a choice to drink whichever they want. Last summer I read that when chickens pant because of the heat, it creates acidosis in their digestive tract therefore we should stop giving them ACV during hot weather and as long as they continue to pant.
I take samples to the vet for fecal floats every 4 months and so far they have been negative. My flock free ranges in half an acre, I hope that giving them ACV has helped keeping them clear of internal parasites (touch on wood).

 

[The Chickeneer]

Many people think that ACV is acidic, but it actually makes your body more alkaline which is very beneficial. Many types of viruses and germs cannot live in an alkaline environment. ACV is a natural pro-biotic, helps prevent worm infestations, boosts their immune system and can improve production of eggs. It also helps chickens that are sickish to perk up a little bit. You can give it to all farm animals at any age, it does some pretty wonderful things.

 

[whittychick]

Do I buy regular apple cider vinegar? And do roosters drink it too?

 

[chicksurreal]

We give our chickens ACV daily, just a bit in their water and have seen no ill effects, our chickens seem very healthy and active. I buy Bragg's unfiltered and unpasteurized ACV. We have 13 pullets and 3 cockerels, so they all drink it.

 

[Sarevan]

Do I buy regular apple cider vinegar? And do roosters drink it too?

Get the ACV with the "mother" on the bottom. Will be dark colored sediment on the bottom. Shake it before using to mix it up. I haven't been able to find any in a grocery store so went to a health food store. Just ask and they will point it out to you. I get it by the gallon and it lasts us about 3 months. We give it to all our animals, cats, dog, and chickens. I even have some in my tea a couple times a week. . the taste takes a bit getting used to.....

 

[whittychick]

Oh thanks for the info! How much do you add?
quote name="Sarevan" url="/t/832829/apple-cider-vinegar-in-their-water#post_12466173"]
Get the ACV with the "mother" on the bottom. Will be dark colored sediment on the bottom. Shake it before using to mix it up. I haven't been able to find any in a grocery store so went to a health food store. Just ask and they will point it out to you. I get it by the gallon and it lasts us about 3 months. We give it to all our animals, cats, dog, and chickens. I even have some in my tea a couple times a week. . the taste takes a bit getting used to.....[/quote]

 

[TwoCrows]

I usually add 1 tablespoon of ACV per gallon of water for maintenance, 2 or 3 tablespoons per gallon for sick birds. Make a fresh batch daily.

 

[whittychick]

Thanks for the info