I've been adding it to reduce algae. It may be working because my waterer doesn't seem slimy and it's definitely not green when I change water in it. I changed it every 3 or 4 days. It is in the coop though, so out of the direct sun.
eta: it's supposed to have health benefits too, especially if you use the kind with the mother in it.
Can ACV used in place of bleach to clean poultry feeders, waters ... etc ?
I know vinegar can be used has a household cleaner, and it's more natural than chemical cleaners !
It is said that -
Apple Cider vinegar is rich in the vitamins, minerals and trace elements found in apples, especially potassium. It will normalize pH levels in the stomach, improve digestion and the assimilation of nutrients.
A few more benefits of Oral Apple Cider Vinegar are:
*Reduces intestinal and fecal odors.
*Aids in digestion.
*Helps to break down minerals and fats.
*Assists the animal to assimilate proteins.
*Assists the animal to convert food better.
*It lowers the pH of the digestive tract which
will make an environment less welcoming
to pathogens therefore will reduce common
infections and increases resistance to disease.
*Improves stamina and fertility.
*It is a great overall tonic that will improve the general well being of the animal.
If started while Birds are young (1-1/2 to 2weeks), birds
*Will feather out quicker.
*Are hardier.
*Grow to their potential sooner when used with an adequate feed.
I find the meat is also leaner due to the fats being converted quicker.
Cautions:
Do not use metal water dishes (except stainless steal).
Vinegar should not be used internally with animals that have an irritated lining of the intestinal tract.
Add 1/8-1/4 of a teaspoon of Apple Cider Vinegar to every 4 fl ozs of water, or 1/8-1/4 cup per gallon of water in 3 to 4 day intervals.
Also I would not use at the same time with a commercial wormer. On some commercial wormer it will have one funky chemical reaction with ACV...
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Unopened, it will keep indefinitely; once opened it will keep about 6 months.
In commercial monogastric (chickens and pigs) livestock production organic acids are used to accomplish three things when either added to the water or feed:
1) Improve digestion by reducing hte pH in the hind gut.
2) Improving gut health by reducing the pH in the hind gut to a point below which deliterious bacteria proliferate
3) Sanitizing agent