Confused about grit

[buckabucka]

Chicks arrive in 2 weeks!

At first, they will just get starter crumbles and not need grit. After a few weeks, though, I would like to give treats. Where can you buy starter grit? I have not been able to find it. DH bought parakeet grit today, but it has added calcium which I just read is a bad idea.
My second question, - how old should the birds be before they can consume regular size grit ?(which seems to be readily available).

I appreciate any advice on this! We are newbies and don't want to give the wrong thing.

 

[LadyB]

You can use cleaned play sand as a substitute for baby chick grit. If you put it out, your chicks will also learn to dust bath in the play sand.

As far as what age they can eat regular "hen grit"... I think once they reach full size, but an expert should correct me. That's not 100% specific and I'm not 100% positive.

Good luck!

edited for duplicate word! yikes!

 

[buckabucka]

Thanks! We have lots of sand in the yard. Can I just gather up some sand (and rinse it, if necessary)?

 

[Backyard_Chicken_rancher]

you can check your feed stores most of themn carry it or TSC may have it as well poultry grit for chicks is what you need when they go outside this should not be a problem they find what they need on the ground itself. If you can't find it anywhere I would just give them the play sand it is cleaned.

 

[LadyB]

Quote:
Sand from your yard should be just fine. They'll be eating it anyway as soon as they have access to scratching around your yard!

 

[KristaBeth]

Quote:
Uh oh, I've been giving my 1 1/2 weeks olds parakeet grit. I didn't know they couldn't have the extra calcium! Why?

 

[FiveHens]

We bought "chick grit" at our local Tractor Supply. It said use until week eight on the package. Hope that helps!

 

[Boo-Boo's Mama]

Our TSC said they didn't need it, so we are using sand from the garden. They are really enjoying it, too. Lots of dust bathing going on!

 

[LadyB]

Quote:
The excess calcium can cause kidney problems in chicks. I've heard bits and pieces that it can cause leg issues too... but I only know the kidney fact for sure.

 

[Sillyshells]

Can chicks eat to much grit? If I put a small pan in they go crazy! I take it out after a few minutes because I worry about them eating to much?