The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Poultry & Waterfowl => Topic started by: SheepMad95 on March 21, 2013, 12:57:35 pm

Title: Chicks
Post by: SheepMad95 on March 21, 2013, 12:57:35 pm

i have had two chicks hatched atm from my incubator, when should i start feeding them food and water? because you have to let the yolk digest first so ive heard?
one was hatched last night, the other this morning

please help me! :P

Title: Re: Chicks
Post by: Little Nell on March 21, 2013, 01:57:16 pm

As far as I know put water and crumb in straight away, they'll start when they're ready. Keep it slightly raised, stops them messing in it and change it frequently as they do make a mess which can tempt infection and disease. You can add a variety of things to their water, some recommend a touch of live yoghurt, you can look up old posts. Good luck.

Title: Re: Chicks
Post by: hughesy on March 21, 2013, 02:10:24 pm

They will probably take to feeding and drinking straight away but they would be ok for up to 48 hours without. I usually give mine access to food and drink a few hours after transferring them to the brooder.

Title: Re: Chicks
Post by: SheepMad95 on March 21, 2013, 04:41:34 pm

OK Thanks :)!! have put food and water in now :)

Title: Re: Chicks
Post by: chrismahon on March 23, 2013, 08:19:25 am

Keep the water tray very shallow SheepMad otherwise they can fall asleep in it and drown. They have to eat and drink the second day but will start pecking instinctively as soon as they are mobile.