Pigeons can digest their food without grit, but most keepers offer a small amount, and vets generally see no harm in that. Pigeons swallow seeds whole and grind them in a muscular gizzard. Grit was long thought to be essential for this. VCA Animal Hospitals says pigeons and doves seem to do fine without it, and that too much grit can cause gut problems. What pigeons do need is a source of minerals, especially calcium for laying hens and growing young.
What grit does
Food passes from the crop to the first stomach (proventriculus), then to the gizzard, where its thick lining and strong muscles grind it. Small stones in the gizzard help with this. Avian vet Peter Sakas notes that grit stays in the gizzard a long time and does not need constant topping up.
Insoluble grit and soluble grit
- Insoluble grit (granite or flint) stays in the gizzard and helps grind food. It has no nutritional value.
- Soluble grit (oyster shell, crushed eggshell, limestone) dissolves and supplies calcium.
- Mineral or “red” pigeon grit sold for lofts is usually a mix of both with added minerals.
The Association of Avian Veterinarians’ pigeon husbandry handout says grit, especially insoluble grit, should be offered sparingly because too much can cause impaction. It suggests soluble grit as a good calcium source for growing and laying birds.
How to offer it
- Put it in a separate small pot, not mixed into the feed.
- Keep it clean and dry, and replace it rather than topping up a dirty pot.
- Offer more calcium to hens that are laying.
When grit can be a problem
A pigeon eating a lot of grit may be short of minerals or have a digestive problem. A sick or starving bird may fill up on grit instead of food. Grit impaction is rare, but watch for a bird that eats grit and little else, or passes droppings with whole seed in them (see pigeon droppings guide).
When to see an avian vet or contact a rescue
See a vet if a pigeon is eating mostly grit, has whole seeds in its droppings, is losing weight or is fluffed up.
FAQ
Do wild pigeons eat grit?
Yes. Feral pigeons pick up small stones, sand and bits of mortar.
Can I use sand instead?
Fine sand passes through quickly and is a poor substitute. Use pigeon grit or oyster shell.
Sources
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding pigeons and doves (opens in new tab)
- Association of Avian Veterinarians: Pigeon husbandry (PDF) (opens in new tab)
- Peter Sakas DVM, Niles Animal Hospital: Grit (PDF) (opens in new tab)
Last updated 30 October 2026 · Keeping