Can i use cedar bedding for their coop along with chicken bedding -- nesting herbs and etc. Thanks I appreciate this
You may wish to take a look at this thread - https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/170489/the-truth-about-red-cedar-bedding. If you search "cedar bedding" you will find more threads on the subject. CT
RE: cedar and pine shavings: If you search the forums there are quite a number of discussions on the topic. And here's a link with just a statement of the main issue. http://ora.research.ucla.edu/OARO/Pages/animal-husbandry/bedding.aspx The anecdotal reports of no problems exclude the use around chicks and young pullets. The only animal research on the issue has been in mammalian small animals. Since it is not used commercially for poultry, I doubt we'll ever see research on this topic specifically for our interests. But fresh cedar is not recommended by Aviary experts - but aged is acceptable. I tend to be more cautious, but IMO if you want to throw in a little with their bedding and have good ventilation you would be ok - it is the aroma of the oils that causes the problems. Maybe let it age before using to reduce the risks? RE: herbs in the nests. No problems there - just be sure to pick those that are known to be non-toxic. But warning - I thought it was a great idea too - but as soon as I placed some in the nests, my pullets ATE IT ALL
