Chickens need about 1 to 2 tablespoons of grit per day to aid digestion and break down food effectively, especially if they eat whole grains or seeds.
Grit is essential for chickens to digest food properly. But how much do they need? The answer depends on their diet and living conditions. Free-range chickens often find natural grit, while confined birds need supplemental grit daily.
Why Chickens Need Grit
Chickens lack teeth. They swallow food whole and rely on grit in their gizzard to grind it up. Without grit, food can’t break down properly. This leads to poor nutrient absorption and potential digestive issues.
How the Chicken Digestive System Works
The gizzard acts like a muscular stomach. It contracts to crush food against the grit. This mechanical breakdown is crucial before chemical digestion begins. Learn more about chicken digestion in our detailed guide.
Types of Chicken Grit
| Type | Purpose | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Insoluble grit | Digestive aid | All chickens |
| Oyster shell | Calcium source | Laying hens only |
| Chick grit | Fine particles | Chicks under 8 weeks |
Insoluble Grit vs. Oyster Shell
Many beginners confuse these two supplements. Insoluble grit (flint or granite) aids digestion. Oyster shell provides calcium for egg production. Weak egg shells often indicate calcium deficiency, not lack of grit.
Daily Grit Requirements
Chickens need 1-2% of their total diet as grit. For an average hen eating 1/4 pound of feed daily, this equals:
- 1.1-2.3 grams of grit per day
- About 1/2 teaspoon per 10 chickens
Factors Affecting Grit Needs
- Diet: Commercial feed requires less grit than whole grains
- Age: Chicks need finer grit than adults
- Housing: Free-range birds find natural grit
- Breed: Larger breeds need more grit
How to Feed Grit Properly
Offer grit free-choice in a separate container. Chickens self-regulate their intake. Place it near their feed or in their run. For confined birds, mix a small amount directly into feed until they learn to use the grit feeder.
Signs Your Chickens Need More Grit
- Undigested food in droppings
- Decreased appetite
- Weight loss despite eating
- Lethargy or discomfort after eating
Common Grit Feeding Mistakes
Many chicken keepers make these errors:
- Confusing grit with oyster shell
- Not providing grit to chicks
- Assuming free-range birds don’t need supplemental grit
- Using the wrong size grit (too large for chicks)
According to Backyard Chickens, even birds on commercial feed benefit from access to grit when eating treats or foraging.
Special Considerations
Grit for Chicks
Start chicks on grit at 1 week old if offering anything besides starter crumbles. Use specially formulated chick grit – finer than adult grit. Omlet recommends mixing a pinch into feed daily for young birds.
Grit for Confined Birds
Chickens without outdoor access absolutely need grit. Their diet lacks natural stones and they can’t forage. Provide insoluble grit at all times in a clean, dry container.
Grit Storage and Quality
Store grit in a dry place to prevent clumping. Check it monthly for mold or contamination. Replace if it develops an odor. High-quality grit should be:
- Clean and dust-free
- Properly sized for your birds
- Made from insoluble materials like granite
- Free from additives or flavorings
Natural Grit Sources
Free-range chickens often find their own grit. Good natural sources include:
- Small pebbles
- Crushed granite
- Coarse sand
- Crushed eggshells (also provides calcium)
Monitor your flock’s droppings to ensure they’re getting enough grit naturally. If you see whole grains in manure, offer supplemental grit.