replace or reuse litter for new batch of chicks?

[l'abeille]

I just finished brooding a batch of chicks to 5 weeks old and placed them with new families. My next batch comes in a couple days YAY! I used deep litter method and my chicks seemed fine. Do I need to pull out all the litter and replace or can I continue using it for the new batch? It is very dry and fluffy. The chicks are raised organically--no medication in the feed.

 

[kimb]

I personally would pull everything out - disinfect - and then re-bed with new litter ... just never know what was left behind from the previous batch ...

ETA: congrats on the little ones placement! and goodluck with the new bundles of joy

 

[Mahonri]

New Litter!

 

[A.T. Hagan]

I have been know to reuse litter in the past, but most of the time I'll clean everything out and start fresh. At the very least clean the waterers and feeders and make sure the litter is dry and not crusty.

.....Alan.

 

[Backyard Hencam]

I wouldn't take a chance on used litter. Better safe than sorry!