When do I have to switch from paper towels to an alternate bedding?

[tara7815]

I started with shavings but realized they were too small so switched to papertowels. Oh my goodness it is SOOOO easy.
everyday I just roll up the messy ones and lay down the new ones.

I dread the shavings mess..LOL But I know they prefer something to kick around and peck at.

When should this be done?

 

[gumpsgirl]

I usually do paper towels for a week then put the chicks on shavings.

You're right! The paper towels are super easy!

 

[Southernbelle]

2-3 days old is usually enough for paper towels.

If you're worried about dust and mess, try using compressed pine pellets - they last longer than shavings and aren't dusty. I use them for new hatchlings, too because they're too big to eat.

 

[insiderart]

Ugh shavings. Buffy Bumpit is 3 weeks old now and I am having to switch to shavings because she started tearing up the paper towels and playing with them. If she hadn't been an only chick I would have had to switch sooner. I love the papertowels.....

 

[ozark hen]

usually a few days and then I switch to shavings.

 

[gritsar]

Quote:
If she was at my house where she belongs, you wouldn't have these problems.

 

[~*Sweet Cheeks*~]

Preferred puppy pads over paper towels. Bigger and more obsorbant.

Wood pellets for sure.

 

[insiderart]

Quote:
If she was at my house where she belongs, you wouldn't have these problems.

Don't tempt me.

 

[bigoakhunter]

I agree with gumpsgirl, I did around 6-7 days than went to pine chips. Mine are 3 weeks now and out in coop with pine chips. Soon to go to deep litter method once they get a little older.