When and how much Grit/Oyster Shell ?

[christina1982]

How often and how much Grit/Oyster Shell should I give my chickens? I only have 5 (25 weeks) but i'm not really sure.

Any suggestions would be great!

 

[AccentOnHakes]

Both can be offered free-choice.

 

[lorain's fids]

Quote:
I just bought a bag of grit and it said for 8 weeks or older. My chicks are 9 weeks, I haven't given it to them yet as they have been eating sand and stuff. About the oyster shell, isn't that for when they start to lay eggs?

 

[colebarnhart]

Grit can and should be offered after 1st week and oyster shell only if you notice thin egg shells, or just want them to always have really thick ones.

 

[Honeysucklefeathers]

I offer mine free choice after a couple of months

 

[christina1982]

Quote:
I offered it to them this morning and their not even laying, it's not going to hurt them is it?!?!?!?!

 

[colebarnhart]

No the grit will only help, not hurt and they are plenty old enough to not have any kidney damage issues because of excess calcium.