Double Checking on grit for chicks

[rustybeers]

So I am brand new to owning chickens. I have done a ton of research so I knew what I was getting into and to ensure that my little guys have the best chance. I just want to double check that I don't need to be feeding grit in the brooder? The guy at the farm and ranch store I visited told I don't need it right away. When should I have this available to them? Thank you so much, I have spent a lot of time on this site it has been super helpful! So pumped to get my little guys.

 

[kimthom66]

I am jumping in on this thread because I am curious about grit myself. I give my chicks (currently 1 - 2 mos old.) medicated starter crumble but want to give them treats but think I have to give them grit too? And how do you feed the grit, in a separate dish? Or in with their food? or just on the floor of the brooder?

 

[Judy]

No grit is needed til you start feeding treats that they will need grit to grind up.

 

[kimthom66]

No grit is needed til you start feeding treats that they will need grit to grind up.

How do you give them the grit then and is there a list of what kind of treats I can give them?

 

[jshreck]

As far as how to give it to chicks-- I usually sprinkle it on the floor of their brooder. The last batch of chicks I had, I made a dust bath in a little box with dirt from outside, the grit and meal worms. They loved scratching and pecking around in it and eventually moved on to dust bathing in it.

I give them mealworms, grapes, raisins, lettuce, cornbread, and probably other stuff too but those are the favorites.

 

[DuncansMom]

Our chicks love French cut green beans. They go nuts over it.

 

[chickyfarm]

I am following this too as I have this exact question

 

[huntersmommy611]

We have given our chicks some clumps of dirt from outside. They have been getting some grapes and carrots, but no grit. I guess I should start a "dust bowl"

 

[Judy]

Here is BYC's list of treats, in case it will help someone here:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/chicken-treat-chart-the-best-treats-for-backyard-chickens