Probiotics For Your Flock

When there are so many supplements available for your flock, it’s important not to overload them and to use the right ones at the right times.   Let’s chat about probiotics, when and why you should use them, and what their benefits are.

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are live, beneficial bacteria and yeast that are typically added to chickens’ feed or water.  They most commonly come as a water-soluble powder but can also be in liquid form, and they are sometimes added to feed.

When should I use probiotics?  

• After antibiotics- 
• Antibiotics kill both good and bad bacteria; probiotics will bring the good bacteria back.
• During high-stress times- 
• If your birds are molting, or the weather is very hot or cold, probiotics can give them a good boost!
• When you get new chicks- 
• Baby chicks can benefit from a good boost of beneficial gut flora.
• When recovering from illness- 
• Adding in some good bacteria helps boost immunity and balance gut health after sickness.

Probiotics help to improve gut health, help with digestion, boost immunity, and can even block harmful pathogens.  Probiotics can even help stop E. coli and Salmonella from growing as well.  As with all supplements, ensure you are following the dosing instructions on the package.