Chickens, just like any other animals, need proper care to stay healthy.
On our smallholding in East Sussex, we've found that alongside traditional treatments, natural remedies can be incredibly effective in maintaining the health of our flock. Here's a rundown of some natural methods we use to keep our chickens in top shape.
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Uses: ACV is brilliant for balancing pH, aiding digestion, and enhancing nutrient absorption. It's also a natural antibacterial agent.
How to Use: We mix 1 tablespoon of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar into 1 litre of their drinking water. Remember to use a plastic waterer, as ACV can corrode metal. You can find Raw, Organic Apple Cider Vinegar on Amazon to get started.
Benefits: We've noticed improved feather quality, less stress during moulting, and an overall boost in their vitality.
Uses: Garlic is a powerful immune booster and acts as a natural wormer. It's also packed with antibacterial and antiviral properties.
How to Use: We crush 2-3 cloves and mix them into their daily feed. For convenience, you can try Garlic Powder for Poultry available on Amazon.
Benefits: It's great for respiratory health, supports the digestive system, and builds natural resistance to diseases.
Uses: Herbs like oregano, lavender, and mint are not just for cooking; they offer insect-repelling, soothing, and digestive benefits.
How to Use: We add fresh or dried herbs to their nesting boxes or mix them into their feed. Organic Dried Herbs are available on Amazon if you're looking to add some to your flock's routine.
Benefits: These herbs have helped improve respiratory health, reduce stress, and keep parasites at bay.
Uses: DE is a natural insecticide, particularly effective against mites, lice, and other external parasites.
How to Use: Only use food-grade DE. We sprinkle it in their nesting boxes and in the areas where they enjoy their dust baths. You can find Food-Grade Diatomaceous Earth on Amazon to ensure it's safe for your chickens.
Benefits: We've seen a noticeable reduction in external parasites, leading to better feather quality and less scratching.
Uses: Probiotics are great for balancing gut flora, aiding in digestion, and enhancing nutrient absorption.
How to Use: We sometimes use poultry-specific probiotics, but natural yoghurt is also a good choice. Just a spoonful mixed into their feed does the trick. Poultry Probiotics are available on Amazon if you want to add them to your chickens' diet.
Benefits: This results in better digestion, more efficient food conversion, and fewer digestive upsets.
Uses: Grit is essential for helping chickens digest grains and hard foods by grinding them in their gizzard.
How to Use: We provide a dish of grit that they can peck at as they need. Poultry Grit is available on Amazon, so your chickens can always have access to what they need.
Benefits: This leads to improved digestion and less food wastage.
Uses: Aloe vera is fantastic for treating skin conditions, minor cuts, and irritations.
How to Use: We apply the aloe gel directly to the affected area. For soothing relief, try Aloe Vera Gel available on Amazon.
Benefits: It promotes quick healing, reduces inflammation, and soothes the skin
What Could Go Wrong?
- Overuse: It's important not to go overboard with these remedies, as too much can cause imbalances or digestive issues.
- Quality: We always opt for food-grade or organic products for safety.
- Interactions: If your chickens are on medication, be cautious as some natural remedies may interfere.
Wrapping Up
Natural remedies are a fantastic way to maintain chicken health, but it's crucial to consult a vet for serious health issues. With these natural solutions, we've embraced a holistic approach to poultry health on our farm, and it's been a rewarding journey, and we have definitely seen the benefits.
