Gravel and grit

[momofseven]

We have these left over from our birds, can I feed this to our chicks before we buy a big bag of grit?

 

[Rickba]

It seems kinda' fine. I'd be afraid it would impact the crop. Personally I wouldn't take the chance. Go buy some chick grit and be safe.

 

[rosemarythyme]

It says with calcium so I would say no to be safe. If you need some chick size grit in a pinch (or don't want to buy a big bag), any clean, larger grained sand would also do.

 

[momofseven]

Oyster shells are fed to chickens, too though, right? Isn't that calcium as well?
Or egg shells?

 

[rosemarythyme]

Oyster shells are fed to laying age chickens. But in this case you have chicks - chicks don't need the excess calcium, it's not good for their kidneys.

Once your flock is laying or close to laying you'll want to provide some calcium for strong eggshells, along with nonsoluable grit of the proper size, if there isn't any present in the chickens' run/foraging areas.

 

[Pork Pie]

http://www.backyardchickens.com/t/891051/the-science-of-feeding-grit-to-poultry

 

[momofseven]

Okidoki, clear
Thanks!

 

[peeper89]

u can use this for babys jus put in little cup so they can get what they want

 

[Rickba]

It says with calcium so I would say no to be safe. If you need some chick size grit in a pinch (or don't want to buy a big bag), any clean, larger grained sand would also do.

IMHO, Sand is a big NONO, Some people like to use it, but sand can contain ground glass. If you look at it closely you'll see it. Go with a products that are made and labeled for your chicks and chickens. Safety first. I hate it when people post stuff when they don't know what they're talking about.

 

[momofseven]

I agree, That's why I asked