Flock Health

[Traviswbird]

Ive noticed a lot of people that use oyster shells for their flock. Are those used just for when you notice soft shells or is that something you can give them whenever? Also I wanted to know if there are any water or food additives anyone would recommend, we do vinegar in the water every now and then. We give them dried worms for scratch and get our layer mix from a local ranch. Any recommendations are greatly appreciated, Thank you!

 

[Wyorp Rock]

Ive noticed a lot of people that use oyster shells for their flock. Are those used just for when you notice soft shells or is that something you can give them whenever? Also I wanted to know if there are any water or food additives anyone would recommend, we do vinegar in the water every now and then. We give them dried worms for scratch and get our layer mix from a local ranch. Any recommendations are greatly appreciated, Thank you!

Welcome To BYC

Oyster shells provide a form of Calcium, you can provide those free choice in a separate container within the coop or run.

Provide fresh clean plain water daily, fresh feed daily. Oyster shell free choice and it's a good idea to also provide grit (crushed granite) free choice even if the birds have access to dirt or other soils that may have pebbles/ small rocks.

If you happen to have a hen that is having problems with soft shelled eggs, you can give her 1 Calcium Citrate+D3 tablet once daily for 3-5 days to see if that helps with shell quality. For hens that are having shell problems look for lice/mites and get a fecal float to see if they need deworming.

 

[SplendidDogFeet]

I give the Rooster Booster electrolyte mix on really hot days (never more than a few days in a row, per the instructions) or if anyone seems off. I also give a vitamin mix. It's been so hot that I've been giving them in a different container than their regular water so that nobody drinks less if they don't like the flavor.

 

[Loving my girls]

Welcome To BYC

Oyster shells provide a form of Calcium, you can provide those free choice in a separate container within the coop or run.

Provide fresh clean plain water daily, fresh feed daily. Oyster shell free choice and it's a good idea to also provide grit (crushed granite) free choice even if the birds have access to dirt or other soils that may have pebbles/ small rocks.

If you happen to have a hen that is having problems with soft shelled eggs, you can give her 1 Calcium Citrate+D3 tablet once daily for 3-5 days to see if that helps with shell quality. For hens that are having shell problems look for lice/mites and get a fecal float to see if they need deworming.

Just as a geeky thing you the vitamin D activates the vitamin C.
They probably get enough vitamin D from the sun but it’s best to be safe.
Hugz