To feed chickens grit, provide a separate container with small stones or commercial grit, allowing them to access it freely for proper digestion.
Grit is essential for chickens to digest food properly. Unlike mammals, chickens lack teeth and rely on grit in their gizzard to grind food. This guide covers everything from types of grit to feeding methods and common mistakes.
What Is Chicken Grit and Why It’s Crucial
Chicken grit consists of small, hard particles like granite or flint. It serves as teeth for poultry, helping break down food in the gizzard. Without grit, chickens can develop digestive issues and malnutrition.
Two Main Types of Grit
- Insoluble grit: Granite or flint pieces for mechanical digestion
- Soluble grit: Oyster shell or limestone for calcium (primarily for layers)
While related, these serve different purposes. For more on calcium supplements, see our guide on watery eggs which discusses calcium deficiency.
When to Start Feeding Grit
Begin offering grit when:
- Chicks transition from brooder to coop (around 6-8 weeks)
- You introduce treats or forage beyond starter feed
- Chickens lack access to natural grit sources
Baby chicks need chick grit (finer particles) if eating anything besides starter crumbles. According to Audrey’s Little Farm, grit can remain in a chicken’s gizzard for up to a year.
How to Offer Grit to Your Flock
Best Feeding Methods
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Free-choice in separate container | Chickens self-regulate intake | May be ignored initially |
| Mixed with feed | Ensures consumption | Hard to monitor intake |
| Scattered in run | Encourages natural foraging | Waste potential |
Most experts recommend free-choice feeding. As noted on Backyard Chickens, chickens naturally take what they need when grit is available.
Grit Feeding Schedule
- Chicks (0-8 weeks): Only if eating non-crumbly food
- Pullets (8-20 weeks): Always available
- Layers: Free-choice insoluble grit + calcium supplement
Common Grit Feeding Mistakes
1. Assuming Free-Range Chickens Don’t Need Grit
While free-range birds find some grit naturally, quality and quantity vary. Supplementation ensures consistent availability.
2. Using Sand as Grit
Sand works for chicks but adult chickens need larger particles. For proper coop setup, see our article on coop size for 10 chickens.
3. Overlooking Grit During Winter
When ground freezes, natural grit sources disappear. Maintain year-round access.
Signs Your Chickens Need More Grit
- Undigested food in droppings
- Decreased appetite
- Weight loss despite eating
- Lethargy or hunched posture
If you notice these signs alongside other symptoms, check our guide on sudden chicken deaths to rule out other issues.
Grit Storage and Quality
Store grit in a dry, airtight container to prevent moisture absorption. Quality grit should:
- Be angular (not smooth) for better grinding
- Range from 1-3mm for adult chickens
- Be free from contaminants
Replace grit every 6-12 months as particles become smooth from use.