Hay ~vs~ Shavings

[dogzrule5]

Ravenfeathers, your icon is gorgeous! I love VT

 

[dacjohns]

I use straw, not hay, in the nest boxes and shavings for litter.

When I had rabbits I started with shredded paper in the nest boxes but didn't like the way it compacted so I switched to straw. When I started with chickens I carried on with straw. It just seems more "natural".

 

[silkiechicken]

I love shavings for inside of coops, and find straw good for muddy spots in the run. However... still working on the pile of free straw I got from a haloween display two years ago so can't justify buying shavings at 9 bucks a bag.

 

[McGoo]

I love the pine shavings way more than hay. Doesn't mat down and fluffs up all the time. I do use hay in the nesting boxes cuz they like to make a little nest and the shavings aren't that great for nesting.

 

[ravenfeathers]

Quote:
thanks, dogzrule5! that's the photo that reminds me why i deal with the snow, the bugs, the mud, and the coyotes: rainbows and ponies, all the way (it was taken by my mother off the deck of our house last summer).

has anyone used peat moss rather than shavings? i would think it would be the ideal coop substrate, since it's absorbent, kills odor, and has a nice fluffy habit, but maybe it's too dusty for using straight?

 

[spook]

That is a beautiful sight! What a once in a lifetime catch of the horses, green grass and trees along with the rainbow. Give Mom a pat on the back and hug, good shot!