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Can I use aquarium Gravel as grit for my chickens?

Discussion in 'Feeding & Watering Your Flock' started by Chiko, Aug 28, 2011.

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  1. Aug 28, 2011 #1
    Chiko

    Chiko Songster

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    I got a huge bag of aquarium gravel with the Betta kit I bought online. I don't need the rest and its just taking up space in the cupboard. Can I feed it as grit to my chickens?
     

  4. Aug 28, 2011 #2
    southerndesert

    southerndesert B & M Chicken Ranch

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    More often than not aquarium gravel is coated with clear epoxy resin or colored in some way and I don't think I would use it if not 100% sure it is not.
     
  6. Aug 28, 2011 #3
    donrae

    donrae Hopelessly Addicted Premium Member

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    I'd be afraid it had something added to it, as mentioned above. Plus, isn't it kind of big?
     
  8. Aug 29, 2011 #4
    A.T. Hagan

    A.T. Hagan Don't Panic

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    So long as it hasn't been dyed or coated with anything it will be fine.
     
  10. Aug 29, 2011 #5
    debid

    debid Crowing

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    Granite is used for packaged grit because it is hard and has somewhat sharp edges. Aquarium gravel has NO sharp edges so it is not a good substitute unless you're going to crush it first.
     
    Last edited: Aug 29, 2011
  12. Aug 29, 2011 #6
    Chiko

    Chiko Songster

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    Thanks everyone. It is a bit big and is dyed white. I'll just buy grit from the feed store. Thanks!--Hector
     
  14. Aug 31, 2011 #7
    shakti2u

    shakti2u In the Brooder

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    Just a note: I was worried about my chickens because there was a lot of glass on this property when I moved here. But, I found out that chickens can eat the glass and it comes out in their poop. I pick up anything big enough to see but they still get the little stuff.


    Sylvia
     

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