| T O P I C R E V I E W |
| Norskema |
Posted - Jun 10 2008 : 09:43:17 AM
Hi,
We just got our first chickens and I have a question about chickie butts. I have read about pasting and had 3 that seemed to be suffering from this condition. I tried cleaning them off and then I put the 3 in a separate box for overnight to things dry off and because another chick was pecking at the hind quarters of one of them (how rude!). They looked better this morning although two of them have little naked rears since they were pulling at the down themselves. This is going to make you laugh if you already have the experience but the vent is just the opening right under the tail, right? (There isn't much on baby chick anatomy that I was able to find.)That's where I cleaned them off with water and a soft cloth. I intend to give everyone another checking out tonight. They are 4 days old today.
I read somewhere the suggestion of adding a bit of cornmeal to their feed to help with the pasting, which I did. I'm at work so I won't know til I go home if I have little chickie corn muffins or if all is okay. I must say that, like raising kids, I have never seen so many conflicting opinions about how to successfully raise baby chicks! So, if you could help a rookie farmgirl out and give some advice about these first few days, it would be very much appreciated! Thanks I'm so excited about this project as they are hilarious - so far! |
| 5 L A T E S T R E P L I E S (Newest First) |
| shepherdgirl |
Posted - Jun 11 2008 : 11:48:10 PM
I think everyone who's ever raised chicks has dealt with this nasty little problem. I know I certainly have!
It's usually caused by stress. Shipping, moving the chicks around or handling too much in the first few days. One feed store I used to buy my chicks from would put an electrolyte solution in the chicks drinking water as soon as they would arrive from the hatchery. I think Murray McMurray sells it. They also have neat little tips on caring for your birds. You might check out their web-site. It might have ideas on what to do for your chicks-- though I think you are doing the right thing by keeping the vents as clean as you can. When it gets so stuck on there is when you have SERIOUS problems and the chicks will even die if you can't get if off. (been there too!)
Don't worry Candace, they should be ok in a few days. ~~~ Tracy
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away. ~~ George Carlin |
| MsCwick |
Posted - Jun 11 2008 : 1:47:21 PM
yeah I heard make sure they have plenty of water also. so when it comes out it doesnt stick . |
| Norskema |
Posted - Jun 11 2008 : 12:51:21 PM
Yeah, it's just those poor bare behinds... I think cute little shorts in a summery print might be nice....? I'll keep up with the washing and keep a close eye out. Thanks! |
| Annab |
Posted - Jun 11 2008 : 03:39:31 AM
It should clear in a few days. Keep up w/ the warm water. It makes them look pathetic, but it's better than dying |
| Tina Michelle |
Posted - Jun 10 2008 : 09:52:49 AM
just keep checking the little vents about once a day. I use diaper wipes to clean them off if need be. easy and fast.After about a week you shouldn't have to worry about them pasting up..at least we didn't have to with ours.and yes the vent is right under the tail.
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