Calcium For Chickens
- Home
- Calcium For Chickens
Calcium For Chickens
Calcium supplements like Calgrit, calcium carbonate, and shell grit are essential for chickens' bone health and eggshell formation. Calgrit is a high-purity limestone product, while calcium carbonate is a common, cost-effective option. Shell grit, made from crushed oyster shells, provides slow-release calcium. These supplements ensure proper skeletal development and prevent egg-laying issues like thin or soft shells.
Calcium is essential for chickens, particularly laying hens, as it helps with eggshell formation, bone health, and overall well-being. There are various calcium supplements available for poultry, including natural sources and commercial products. Here's a breakdown of common calcium supplements for chickens:
1. Natural Calcium Sources
✅ Shell Grit (Oyster Shell, Limestone Grit)
Crushed oyster shells or limestone grit provide a slow-release calcium source.
Helps maintain strong eggshells.
Birds consume it as needed.
✅ Calcium Carbonate (Ground Limestone, Chalk)
A highly concentrated calcium source.
Commonly used in commercial poultry feed.
✅ Eggshells (Recycled, Crushed & Dried)
A free and natural calcium source.
Must be baked or dried to prevent disease transmission.
2. Commercial Calcium Supplements
These are designed for poultry and birds, ensuring proper calcium intake:
🔹 Calgrit (Graymont)
Crushed limestone-based supplement.
Provides calcium for eggshell formation.
Works as an insoluble grit, aiding digestion.
🔹 Vetafarm Calcivet
Liquid calcium and vitamin D3 supplement.
Absorbed quickly, suitable for soft-shelled eggs and weak bones.
Can be added to drinking water or mixed with food.
🔹 Vetsense Avi-Calcium
Liquid calcium with added vitamin D3 for better absorption.
Helps prevent calcium deficiency in laying hens.
🔹 Bainbridge Chicken Calcium
Liquid calcium supplement for fast absorption.
Contains vitamin D3 for improved calcium uptake.
Ideal for soft eggshells or deficiency correction.
🔹 Other Supplements (Calcium + Multivitamins)
Some brands offer calcium alongside phosphorus, vitamin D3, and other minerals.
Examples include breeder-specific supplements and poultry mineral mixes.
How to Provide Calcium to Chickens
✔ Free-Choice Method: Offer shell grit or crushed eggshells in a separate dish.
✔ Mixed in Feed: Commercial calcium carbonate or limestone powder is often added to feed.
✔ Water-Soluble: Liquid calcium supplements like Calcivet or Avi-Calcium can be added to drinking water.
Signs of Calcium Deficiency in Chickens
🔸 Soft or thin eggshells
🔸 Reduced egg production
🔸 Lameness or weak bones
🔸 Feather pecking (can be a sign of mineral deficiency)
