To give chickens grit, provide a separate feeder with crushed granite, oyster shells, or commercial grit, allowing them to access it freely for digestion aid.
Grit is essential for chickens to digest food properly. Unlike humans, chickens don’t have teeth to chew their food. They rely on grit in their gizzard to grind up food particles. This guide covers everything you need to know about providing grit to your flock.
What Is Chicken Grit and Why It’s Important
Chicken grit consists of small, hard particles like granite or flint. It serves two main purposes:
- Digestive aid: Grit helps grind food in the gizzard
- Calcium source: Oyster shell grit provides calcium for egg production
Without grit, chickens can develop digestive issues like impacted crops or malnutrition. Even if your chickens free-range, providing supplemental grit ensures they get enough.
Types of Grit
1. Insoluble Grit
Made from granite or flint. This stays in the gizzard to grind food. Essential for all chickens.
2. Soluble Grit
Usually oyster shell. Provides calcium for laying hens. Not needed for chicks or roosters.
3. Chick Grit
Finer particles for chicks under 8 weeks old. Regular grit is too large for them.
When to Start Offering Grit
Start providing grit when:
- Chicks begin eating treats or foraging (around 2 weeks old)
- You transition chicks from brooder to coop
- Chickens eat anything besides commercial feed
For adult chickens, grit should always be available. Learn more about when to feed chickens grit in our detailed guide.
How to Provide Grit to Your Chickens
Best Methods
- Free-choice in separate container: Use a small feeder or dish
- Mixed with feed: Especially helpful when first introducing grit
- Scattered in run: Mimics natural foraging behavior
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Separate container | Chickens self-regulate intake | May be ignored at first |
| Mixed with feed | Ensures consumption | Hard to monitor intake |
| Scattered in run | Encourages natural behavior | Can be wasted or contaminated |
How Much Grit to Provide
Chickens only need about 1-2% of their diet in grit. A good rule is:
- 1 pound of grit per 10 chickens per month
- Offer free-choice – they’ll eat what they need
Special Considerations
For Chicks
Use chick-specific grit until 8 weeks old. Mix a small amount with their starter feed when introducing treats.
For Confined Chickens
Chickens without access to dirt need grit year-round. Ensure your run size allows for natural behaviors.
Seasonal Changes
In winter when ground is frozen, increase grit availability since chickens can’t forage for stones.
Common Questions About Chicken Grit
Can Chickens Overeat Grit?
No, they self-regulate intake. However, if you notice excessive consumption, check for other health issues.
Do Chickens Need Grit With Commercial Feed?
Only if they eat anything besides pellets/crumble. But it’s good to offer it just in case.
How Long Does Grit Stay in the Gizzard?
Grit can remain functional for up to a year before being passed or worn down.
Where to Buy Chicken Grit
You can find grit at:
- Farm supply stores (Tractor Supply, Rural King)
- Online retailers like Amazon
- Local feed stores
For a natural alternative, some chicken keepers use clean, crushed granite or small pebbles. However, commercial grit is carefully sized for optimal digestion.
Troubleshooting Grit Issues
Chickens Not Eating Grit
Try mixing a small amount with their favorite treats. They may not recognize it as food at first.
Finding Undigested Food in Droppings
This indicates insufficient grit. Increase availability and monitor.
Impacted Crop
Can result from lack of grit. Learn other reasons chickens may have digestive issues.
Remember, grit is a simple but crucial part of chicken care. By providing the right type and amount, you’ll keep your flock healthy and digesting properly.