How to properly welcome a chick?

Welcoming a chick is a crucial step to ensure its well-being and

its good growth . Every detail, from its environment to its

food, plays an essential role in providing your little protégé with the

better living conditions.

Prepare the chick's environment

A secure and suitable space

Upon arrival, the chick must be placed in a secure enclosure , also called a brooder .

Here are the essential elements for its well-being:

• An enclosed space : Avoid drafts and potential predators.

• Suitable heating : The temperature must be maintained at approximately

35°C the first week, then gradually reduced.

• A comfortable floor : Choose wood shavings or paper

absorbent to prevent injuries.

• An accessible watering and feeding trough : Water and food

must be available at all times.

Temperature management

The chick does not yet regulate its body temperature well. Infrared heating or a hot plate is recommended to prevent hypothermia .

A heat source is essential. Chicks need to be kept warm: their environment should be around 30 to 35°C for the first week.

After that, the temperature can be reduced by 5°C per week. From the fourth week onwards, 18°C is sufficient. In addition to heat lamps, there are also radiant tubes or heating plates. Unlike lamps, these do not emit any light. They therefore do not disrupt the chicks' normal day and night rhythm.

• If it moves too far from the heater : The temperature is too high.

• If it remains clumped under the heat source : The temperature is too low.

Feeding the chick

Proper nutrition for optimal growth

Just like human babies, a chick's diet varies depending on its age:

● At hatching

● During the first age

● In the second age

Each phase of growth requires special attention to ensure good health and harmonious growth.

The first days : an energy-rich food to kick-start growth

The first few weeks , from 1 to 5 weeks, are crucial for the chick's physical development. It is during this period that its body begins to form and the chick is particularly vulnerable. It is therefore important to provide it with a specific diet that supports this rapid growth.

Choose feed specially formulated for chicks, which you can find at specialty pet stores. These mixes are perfectly suited to their size and weight needs. They are balanced and contain essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals to promote healthy growth of organs, muscles, and feathers.

Please note, before the first 10 days , the chick cannot eat

foods that are too large. So choose foods in crumb form,

specially designed for young chicks.

The chick's dietary needs include :

● Protein (around 20-22%) to support muscle and bone growth.

● Vitamins and minerals to boost the immune system and ensure good overall development.

● Starter pellets or crumbs adapted to their nutritional needs.

The chick can also eat some fresh and natural foods, such as:

● Vegetable tops, peelings, salad, fruit (in

small quantities and finely chopped).

● Cooked potatoes, dry bread soaked in water, as well as

shellfish and crustaceans crushed into small particles.

● Fresh greenery once mature.

However, it is absolutely necessary to avoid giving him leftover meat, dishes in sauce, overly salty foods, as well as onions, garlic or leeks.

It is also essential to supplement their diet with a balanced food and provide them with fresh, clean water at all times to prevent dehydration.

Mistakes to avoid

Do not give too much bread or inappropriate foods, as this could upset their digestion.

• Gradually introduce fresh greens to avoid the risk of diarrhea during the food transition period.

• Clean the waterer regularly to prevent the proliferation of bacteria.

Monitor the health of the chick

Signs of good health

A healthy chick should be active , have clean plumage , and eat properly .

Here are some positive indicators:

• A lively look

• A confident approach

• A regular appetite

• It is recommended to weigh the chick twice a week, then twice a month once it is an adult .

When to consult a veterinarian?

If your chick shows signs of weakness , such as:

• Lethargy or lack of energy

• Diarrhea or abnormal droppings

• Respiratory problems (sneezing, wheezing)

• Weight loss

• Decreased appetite

It is essential to consult a veterinarian quickly to avoid any complications.

Give your chick a healthy start!

At Vétérinaire du Phoenix , we support you to ensure the well-being and optimal growth of your chicks.

If you have any questions or problems, please do not hesitate to contact us!

Make an appointment now !