Sick baby chick - please help!?

Question

Hi,

A friend gave me a 1 week old tiny silky chick and it seemed poorly. I have had this chick about 5 hours and I only have some idea what to do. I have 14 of my own chooks but have never raised a baby. It is currently in a polyunstyrene box with blankets, a 240W light globe hanging 20cm above the box. It drinks a little water from my hand and ate a little food. I have not put water in the box as I am scared it will drown I am prepared to go in there often to feed atc till I think it is out of the woods. My questions are.. How do I know if it is doing ok? It is chirping but not walking. How do I know if it is too hot cold? How much does it need to eat? Thanks.

Answer 1

Well, if its eating and drinking there is not much else you can do. I do suggest putting some electrolytes in his water to see if he gets stronger and better. You can get the electrolyte powder at farm stores.

The light needs to be on only one side with alot of room to get away from the heat. If hes as far away from the heat as possible, its too hot. If hes huddled right under the light all day hes probably cold.

Answer 2

well chicks eat alot give it mash it is filled with vitamins and stuff that chicks need

if it is too hot it will move to the outer part were not that much heat gets to it

if it is too cold it will move right in the middle of  the light were all the heat falls

Answer 3

I know nothing about that =/

SORRY!

But here's some things you should know if they help!

http://www.lionsgrip.com/babychix.html

http://www.strombergschickens.com/stock/...

http://www.ehow.com/how_5788_raise-baby-...

Answer 4

It sounds like you chick is sick.  Unfortunately most veterinarians know nothing about chickens unless they are an avian specialist.  

The temperature in your box should be approximately 85 degrees at the chicks level.  Use a thermometer.

You should have water available at all times.  Get a shallow dish  or bowl and put some clean rocks in it then fill it with water the rocks will keep it from drowning in the water.  

Chickens should have food available at all times when they are chicks especially.  

Right now since your chick is weak I would put a table spoon full of sugar in the water.  I would also dip in the birds beak to see if you could entice it to drink some.  

If you would like to learn more check out the poultry 101 section of this website - http://www.uBuilderPlans.com

Good luck!

Answer 5

Take it to the vet to see if its alright. Ask the vet while your there say your questions politely!