Mixing Diatomaceous Earth into Feed

[longranger]

I really want to do this to the 2% recommended for intestinal parasite control and fly controll but cannot figure out a practical way to do it without exposing myself to too much DE dust and making a mess. Also doesn't it make a dusty mess when you scoop the mixture? Educate me please.

 

[Mahonri]

I always wear one of my medical face masks when working with DE, and I always put a little in their feed.

 

[TXmom]

I'm not much help...I don't measure mine, I just sprinkle a little over the top of their feed. I'm sure what I'm doing is less than 2%, but I hope it's at least a little beneficial.

 

[purpletree23]

I use a Folgers or Maxwell house coffee container. The big plastic ones with the resealable lids. I fill it 3/4 way with feed add 1 tablespoon of DE and close lid. I 'tumble' the container and let it sit till morning. Gently pour it into feeder. I have a 10 lb hanging feeder and it is very easy to take outside, fill and any dust blows away in a minute. Put feeder back inside.

I find that powered coffee creamer is just as dusty as DE. Just be gentle.

 

[afamof11bucks]

Hi,
I'm new to this forum. I'll introduce myself first. I'm the mom of 9 kids, 2 dogs, 2 cats, 1 chinchilla, 34 chickens, and 2 baby goats. I'm also the grandma to 4 and wife of Dan. We raised chickens whan I was kid, but I didn't pay attention to much of it then. I've been following some of the info regarding DE. How does someone find a place that actually sells it? Nowhere around here seems to sell it. (Michigan). Also do any of you know if it's ok to let chickens nibble beet pulp? I want to use it for my goats, but don't know if it is ok if the chickens get it. They live together! I appreciate any info. Thanks!

 

[Kat'sChicks]

Welcome to the group from another newbie! Check with your local farm supply store or grain Co-Op. You can also find it in the swimming pool supply area at some places. Good luck and stay cool!

 

[RendonRoo]

Be sure that you buy food grade DE. I'm not sure it would be from a pool supply. Good Luck and welcome to BYC

 

[KnitswithChickens]

I ordered mine here:

http://www.earthworkshealth.com/

Do not buy anything other than food grade. Pool suppliers generally carry non-food grade.

 

[sonew123]

For a 50# bag of food put in 2 cups of DE that works out to be 2%-I dont wear a mask-its very good for people too-they tell you to put it in your food!

 

[hinkjc]

The swimming pool DE is toxic to animals. It contains in excess of 30% silica which is deadly if consumed. Please be sure to buy the FOOD GRADE DE from a reliable source that knows what it is. The silica content s/b around 2% or less.