Raising newly hatched chicks requires careful attention to their diet, as their first few weeks involve extremely rapid growth. Providing the correct nutrients is directly linked to their health and development. Owners must understand the specific nutritional needs of these young birds to ensure they thrive.
Essential Starter Feed
The foundation of a baby chick’s diet is commercial Chick Starter Feed, formulated to meet their intense early growth demands. This diet is high in protein (18% to 24%), supporting the rapid development of bones, feathers, and muscle mass. Feeding anything else can result in developmental issues and stunted growth.
New owners must decide between medicated and unmedicated starter feed. Medicated feed contains a coccidiostat, a medication designed to help chicks develop immunity against Coccidiosis, a common parasitic disease. This preventative measure is recommended if the chicks have not been vaccinated.
Unmedicated feed is chosen when chicks have received a Coccidiosis vaccination or if the owner plans to raise them in a highly sanitized environment. Never feed medicated starter to vaccinated chicks, as the coccidiostat can counteract the vaccine’s effectiveness. Starter feed is typically presented in a fine mash or a small crumble form; the crumble form is often preferred because it minimizes waste.
Water and Necessary Grit
Constant access to clean, fresh water is equally important as the correct feed. Water intake affects digestion, nutrient absorption, and temperature regulation. The water must be refreshed daily and kept free of droppings and feed particles to prevent bacterial growth.
Using a specialized chick-sized waterer is advisable, as it prevents accidental drowning and keeps the water source cleaner. The water should be placed slightly above the chicks’ back level, encouraging them to drink without stepping into the dish.
Chicks lack teeth, relying on the gizzard, a muscular organ, to grind down solid foods. This requires the ingestion of small, insoluble particles known as chick grit. If chicks are exclusively consuming commercial starter feed, they do not need supplemental grit. Grit only becomes necessary when they begin eating treats or foraging materials, which the gizzard needs assistance breaking down.
Dietary Transition Timeline
The high-protein starter feed is suitable for the first six to eight weeks of a chick’s life. At this point, their rapid growth slows, and they must transition to a grower feed. Grower feed typically contains a lower protein percentage (16% to 18%) and fewer calories than the starter formula.
To prevent digestive upset, the diet change must be implemented gradually over seven to ten days. This involves mixing the old starter feed with the new grower feed, slowly increasing the proportion of grower feed each day. A sudden change can cause digestive distress.
Chicks remain on the grower feed until they reach sexual maturity, typically around 18 weeks of age. At this stage, they transition to layer feed, which is formulated with higher calcium content to support strong eggshells.
Foods to Never Feed Chicks
Treats should be limited to 5% to 10% of a chick’s total daily intake. The starter feed provides a complete nutritional package, and overfeeding treats can dilute the necessary protein and vitamin intake. Treats should only be given after the chick has consumed its full portion of starter feed.
Several common human foods are toxic or dangerous for young birds. Avocado pits and skins contain persin, a fungicidal toxin harmful to poultry. Dried or uncooked beans contain phytohemagglutinin, a lectin that is highly toxic even in small amounts.
Other items to strictly avoid include green parts of potatoes and tomatoes, which contain solanine, a glycoalkaloid that causes nervous system issues. Moldy foods should never be offered, as they can produce dangerous mycotoxins. Excessive salt intake can also lead to dehydration and kidney problems.