What is grit?

[bkate]

I know this is a stupid question but I'm new and don't know what grit is or where I can by it. Please help me!

 

[michickenwrangler]

It is small stones or pebbles that birds eat to crush food to make digestion easier--we mammals have teeth to do it for us. You can buy it at any farm supply store--TSC carries it. A 5lb bag is usually only a few bucks. You can also get some grit from a gravel road or sandy area (make sure sand is coarse, like sugar).

If you feed your birds ONLY crumbles or pellets, they don't need grit. However, if they free range or you give them scratch or seeds, they'll need it. Free ranging birds can rustle up some grit but I offer mine free choice. You could also mix in in with their feed.

Good luck with your birds and don't be afraid to ask questions here. This is a very helpful and supportive group.

 

[Cats Critters]

It's crushed stones(or small stones that they find on the ground) that helps them grind up their food. You can get it at most feed stores.

 

[bkate]

Thank you so much. This is a very helpful website.

 

[Von]

It is MUCH cheaper at a grain elevator/feed store. Here locally, our Tractor Supply carries the 5lb bag for $8. Down the street at the grain elevator we can get a 50 bag for $8!

 

[Amethyste]

Yes at our local feed store we got a 50 # bag for about same price. It lasts forever!!

 

[Fuffy]

First of all Welcome to bkate!!!

I have had chickens for almost a month now, and it took me a while to work out that the grit they sold me in the feed store (oyster shells) is not suitable for pullets that haven't started laying yet.

Also it is not grit!

Anyway the very kind people on this forum helped me out, and someone even made up my avatar for me...

And now my flock of 5 is thriving!!!

So thanks to all you kind and helpful people out there!!!