Grit/oyster shell for chicks?

[Shane17]

I am currently raising my first batch of chicks. I have 8 which are 6 days old. I was told by a coworker they needed grit/ oyster shells supplemented into there feed so they can digest after 3 days old. I feed them Dumor complete chick starter from Tractor supply. The back of the bag says that grit or other vitamins are NOT needed with this feed. Any advice or suggestions. thanks

 

[Imp]

I am currently raising my first batch of chicks. I have 8 which are 6 days old. I was told by a coworker they needed grit/ oyster shells supplemented into there feed so they can digest after 3 days old. I feed them Dumor complete chick starter from Tractor supply. The back of the bag says that grit or other vitamins are NOT needed with this feed. Any advice or suggestions. thanks

Oyster shell is a calcium supplement, for stong egg shells. It is only needed for hens that are laying.

Grit is used in the gizzard to help grind up the food they eat. Usually small stones/pebbles. It is not needed if all your chicks are eating is the starter. If they are getting other foods(treats), then chick grit is a good idea.

Oyster shells and grit is not interchangable.

Imp

 

[Shane17]

Oyster shell is a calcium supplement, for stong egg shells. It is only needed for hens that are laying.

Grit is used in the gizzard to help grind up the food they eat. Usually small stones/pebbles. It is not needed if all your chicks are eating is the starter. If they are getting other foods(treats), then chick grit is a good idea.

Oyster shells and grit is not interchangable.

Imp

So once there outside and ranging around my property i should supplement??? thanks

 

[Imp]

Quote: If they have access to the ground, and there are rocks in it, no grit is needed. They will pick up what they need.

If they are eating layer feed supplementing calcium is probably not needed. Layer has calcium in it.
Some people still offer it as insurance that the egg shells will continue to be strong.

Imp- I have both but rarely use it. Hasn't been a problem for me. I do plan on adding grit to the run soon, as my pullets are spending more time in it.