Cuttlebones for chicks?

[wackypig]

Hi All,

First time poster, long time lurker here.

I have 3 - 3 week old baby chicks, and they all have very sharp little beaks (as expected!) It's not usually a problem, but when they peck food out of my hand, it can be a little painful. I was wondering if anyone has tried giving (or is it even safe to give) cuttlebones to chicks in a brooder? I used to have lovebirds and cockatiels and gave them cuttlebones to keep their beaks from getting too pointy. Alternatively, could I just give them some other hard things (like rocks) to rub on?

I have full grown hens (they came with my house!), and they seem to keep their beaks under control by just being out in the yard and using them to pull up grass and worms.

Thanks for any input!

 

[debid]

Beaks can overgrow with caged birds but it is unlikely your youngsters have a beak problem already. Cuttlebones are rich in calcium and too much calcium is hazardous for a growing chick's kidneys. So no, don't give them one. I had a half brick in the brooder for a booster to the water nipple for the smaller chicks. I never saw them hone their beaks on it but it won't hurt a thing to give yours a rock or brick. If you can give them a safe enclosure with access to the outdoors, you won't have to worry about caged bird issues.

 

[wackypig]

Thanks very much -- very good advice! I hadn't thought about them containing calcium, so I'm glad I asked.

 

[donrae]

I use bricks to elevate the feed and water, so they take care of both things! Well, three, if you count the fact walking on the bricks also keeps the little nails short.