How often do you give chickens grit?

[kimntep]

Yes! Even if they can scratch around for hard bits of dirt and small rocks, be on the safe side and keep a bit of grit available at all times. They know when they need it and you don't want them to need it and not have it.

 

[CoyoteMagic]

I've had chickens for the last 4 years and never once given them grit. They either free range or are in tractors where they have access to good ol' North Carolina red dirt. Never had any problems. When the chicks are about 3 weeks old (younger if I'm having problems with pasty butt) I start tossing them weeds and grass with dirt clumps attached a couple times a week.

 

[GardenNovice]

My chickens are now 12 weeks old. The grit I have says up to 10 weeks. Do I need purchase another type of grit for older hens?

 

[Folly's place]

In general , if the birds are on dirt, they find their own small stones and gravel. On the other hand, supplying grit does no harm, so why not? Mine comes in bulk bins from a local feed/ pet supplies store. They also sell oyster shell in two sizes by the pound, so small quantities are available instead of those nasty 50 lb. bags. Mary