Can DE cause a chicken to cough?

[threehorses]

If you put that much down where it was dusty, yes - it's not only too much, it can cause respiratory problems. Just scoop that dirt up and remove it - well spread it out more around the yard.

We all have to remember that birds are particularly sensitive to dusts and particulates in the air. DE is safe - only when you use little enough to where they (and you) won't be breathing it in. That's the way it should be labeled to use.

If used in those considerations, it's safe if human grade. You just have to be careful.

I'm sorry you had a rough first experience with it. It's really nice stuff.

 

[allmypeeps]

DE can irratate nasal and mucous membranes. It is made out of the dust of fossilized diatoms. The whole purpose of it is to microscopically 'scrape up' the exoskeleton of parasites causing them to dehydrate and die.

If you noticed it directly after applying it- it could very well have created irratation if the hen gasped in a bunch of dust.

good luck

e

 

[PAChuck]

Learning a lot reading through this thread. We just started with our first six hens last week. LOTS to learn.
Our run is about 35 sq ft. The floor has about 3 inches of crushed stone on top of packed dirt an inch or two of straw on top of that.
The henhouse is about 12 sq ft., wood floor with an inch or two of pine shavings.
Both areas have loads of ventilation.
Couple questions:
1) sounds like we should have a lot more litter in both areas?
2) anyone have advice on how much diatomaceous earth to use in each area? We want to raise our birds without pesticides and I'm paranoid about insect pests.
Thanks,
Chuck