Brooder Bedding Suggestions?

[Armaget]

would paper towels work? I was considering those but thought it might not be very comfortable for them to sleep on or cuddle in.

 

[CindyinSD]

Paper towels would work, as would that soft, rubbery, nubby shelf liner stuff that people like to use in the incubator. That can be hosed off and disinfected by spraying well with strong vinegar (not homemade acv). I would hose off, removing visible poop, spray heavily with vinegar, then roll up and wrap in plastic wrap and/or a towel to prepare for the next time. After a day or so, air out until the smell goes away. I haven't done this, but I will when I run out of puppy pads. I'm guessing there are none in the stores. There are also no paper towels. You don't need to do this for very long... I only did it one day for my most recents and only used one puppy pad. I mostly wanted the smoothish surface for them to find their food and learn what it was.

Don't use newspaper. People say the chicks find it slippery and develop spraddle-leg injuries from doing the splits.

 

[Isaac 0]

"No newspaper, cardboard, plastic or metal. Straw, shavings or some other absorptive, rough surface is ideal. Then you must bring the legs back to their natural position and hold them that way to allow the hip joint and ligaments to heal and strengthen. "

https://www.metzerfarms.com/SpraddleLeg.cfm?affiliate=undef&CustID=25176323