Can oyster shells be used as grit?

Oyster Shells (Also Known As Soluble Grit) Oyster shell (my favorite is this one from Amazon) is known as soluble grit. This is because the calcium from the oyster shell dissolves in the hens’ stomach and is used in making shells and strengthening bones. Only laying hens require oyster shell.

What is the difference between oyster shells and grit?

Grit is insoluble. It stays in the gizzard and it’s used to grind food. Oyster shell dissolves in the gut. Its job is not to do with digestion – it’s to add calcium to the diet of laying hens.

What is oyster grit made of?

Oyster shell grit is typically made from oyster shells, but you can also make your own grit by grinding up baked eggshells. Flint grit is made from flint or granite milled into very small pieces. Some grit is designed for chicks under the age of 8 weeks.

What’s the difference between oyster shell and grit?

Oyster shell and grit are two different products that accomplish two different things, and they are NOT interchangeable. Let’s take a look at the two products and their purposes.

What kind of grit does a chook need?

Oyster Shell Grit is essential for non free ranging chooks that are unable to source their own grit from soils. Also essential for poultry on whole grain diets. NOTE: Our grit is ideal for all Aviary birds and Poultry.

Why do birds need finely crushed oyster shells?

Insufficient calcium in the diet can cause poor bone growth, and in breeding/developing birds contribute to thin egg shells and egg binding. Soluble grit (like finely crushed Oyster Shells) can provide birds with essential calcium for bone formation and egg shell production.

What kind of grit is in cuttle bone?

Soluble grit is organic and includes cuttle bone and oyster shells. Soluble grit is mostly gypsum or limestone (calcium carbonate). Soluble grit dissolves and is readily digested by acids in the proventriculus and in doing so does not remain in the gizzard or cause impaction.