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I’ve hatched quite a few chicks over the years. One of the most important things to consider when raising baby chicks is their diet and hydration. It’s crucial to know when to start feeding and watering them, to ensure they grow up healthy and strong.
In this article, I’ll share my experiences and knowledge on when newly hatched chicks should start eating and drinking.
When Should Newly Hatched Chicks Start Eating and Drinking?
When it comes to feeding and watering newly hatched chicks, timing is key. While they can survive without food or water for a short period, it’s important to introduce them to both as soon as possible. The exact timing can vary depending on the chick’s hatch time, but there are some general guidelines to follow.
Introducing Water
It’s crucial to introduce water to chicks as soon as they’re able to drink. A good rule of thumb is to give them water first, then food, to avoid pasty butt. Pasty butt is a condition that occurs when droppings stick to the chick’s vent area and can lead to blockages and infections if not treated promptly. When introducing water, make sure it’s at room temperature and not too deep, as chicks can drown easily.
Some backyard chicken enthusiasts suggest dipping the chick’s beak in the water dish one by one as you place them in the brooder. This can help the chicks learn to drink and ensure they’re all hydrated. Another option is to use a waterer with a shallow base to prevent drowning, or even a nipple waterer which can be cleaner and more efficient.
Introducing Food
Similar to water, it’s important to introduce food to chicks as soon as possible. Chicks require a high protein diet to grow and thrive, so it’s essential to choose the right type of feed for them. Medicated chick starter feed is a popular choice, as it contains antibiotics that can help prevent common chick illnesses.
Once you’ve chosen the right type of feed, it’s time to introduce it to the chicks. Start by sprinkling some feed on the brooder floor, making sure it’s spread out evenly. You can also place the feed in a feeder to prevent waste and keep it clean. Some people even mix the feed with water to create a “mash” that’s easier for chicks to eat and digest.
When to Start Feeding and Watering Chicks
So, when should you start feeding and watering chicks? The short answer is as soon as possible. However, the exact timing can vary depending on the chick’s hatch time and behavior. Here are some general guidelines to follow:
- Chicks can go up to 72 hours without food or water after hatching, thanks to the yolk they absorb before hatching. However, it’s not recommended to wait that long to introduce them to food and water.
- If you’ve hatched the chicks yourself, wait until they’re completely dry before placing them in the brooder. This can take up to 24 hours after hatching.
- Once the chicks are in the brooder, introduce water first, then food. Make sure the water is at room temperature and not too deep.
- If you’ve purchased chicks from a store or hatchery, they’ll likely already have been given food and water. In this case, continue to provide them with the same type of feed and water they’re used to.
It’s important to monitor the chicks’ behavior and make adjustments as needed. If you notice any signs of dehydration or pasty butt, adjust the water level or type of feed accordingly. Additionally, make sure the brooder is clean and dry to prevent bacterial growth and illness.
Factors to Consider When Feeding and Watering Newly Hatched Chicks
While introducing food and water to chicks is crucial, there are some factors to consider to ensure they’re getting the right nutrition and hydration.
Temperature
One of the most important factors to consider when raising baby chicks is the brooder temperature. Chicks need to be kept warm, as they can’t regulate their body temperature like adult chickens can. The brooder temperature should be around 95-100 degrees Fahrenheit for the first week of life, then gradually lowered by 5 degrees each week until the chicks are fully feathered and can handle cooler temperatures.
When feeding and watering chicks, make sure the food and water are at room temperature. Chicks are more likely to drink water that’s not too cold, and cold food can cause digestive issues.
Amount
It’s important to provide chicks with enough food and water to meet their nutritional and hydration needs. As a general rule, chicks should have access to food and water at all times, as they eat and drink frequently throughout the day. Make sure the waterer and feeder are always full and clean, to prevent contamination and illness.
Type of Feed
Choosing the right type of feed for chicks is crucial for their growth and development. Medicated chick starter feed is a popular choice, as it contains antibiotics that can help prevent common chick illnesses. However, some backyard chicken enthusiasts prefer to use organic or non-medicated feed to avoid exposing the chicks to antibiotics.
It’s also important to choose a feed with the right protein content for the chicks’ age. Starter feed typically contains around 18-20% protein, which is suitable for chicks up to 8 weeks of age. After that, switch to a grower feed with a slightly lower protein content.
Hygiene
Maintaining a clean and hygienic brooder is essential for the chicks’ health and wellbeing. Make sure to clean the waterer and feeder regularly, and replace the bedding as needed. Wet or dirty bedding can harbor bacteria and cause respiratory issues in the chicks.
Additionally, wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling the chicks or their food and water. This can help prevent the spread of disease and illness.
Conclusion
Feeding and watering newly hatched chicks is a crucial part of raising backyard chickens. Introducing water and food as soon as possible is essential for the chicks’ growth and development. When introducing water and food, consider factors such as temperature, amount, type of feed, and hygiene to ensure the chicks are getting the right nutrition and hydration. By following these guidelines and monitoring the chicks’ behavior, you can help ensure they grow up healthy and strong.
