Electrolyte water

[MightyMama]

Is there any harm in adding electrolytes for too long? It's been hot, my chickens were sick, so I started adding it about 2 weeks ago. It's getting hot again, and I'm continuing it, but I'm curious if I could be giving them too much (or rather for too long).

 

[Laura Galland]

Same question as @MightyMama ! I'm new to chicken love and, of course, this would have to be a summer of near-record breaking heat in Tucson, Arizona! Already lost two hens to the heat. Set up misters and kiddie pools for our flock, and they seem to be doing much better. Found that misting the nesting hens allowed them to "drink" the misted water, which eased my mind a bit, but would like put the flock on a course of electrolyte water, as well.

 

[chicken4prez]

I'm wondering this too.

 

[lazy gardener]

Yes, you can harm them by giving electrolytes when they are not needed. Too much of a good thing is not a good thing. What I suggest is that you offer the electrolytes, but also see to it that they have plenty of fresh water available. Let them choose what to drink.