Chicks with prominent breastbone?

shiningeyes said:

I have 4 chicks 2 are 5 weeks old and 2 are 6. I'm concerned because they have prominent breast bones I feel everytime I pick them up. They have always had free choice feed and fresh water. I add ACV and probiotics and occasionally electrolytes. They are eating and drinking. They have sneezed a little but have otherwise acted normal I believe? Should I worry or will they just fill out as they get older?

Click to expand...

ChicKat said:

You didn't say what breed they are ... but I think that there are different growth rates for different breeds.  Fast growers would be hybrids and 'meaties' -- Slower growers would be the heritage breeds..... 

If they seem active and healthy   It sure sounds like you are doing everything right..... then maybe not to worry too much.  If they seem listless -- then maybe a cause for concern...... 

Are you feeding them 'medicated' chick starter or non-med?  Is their poop 'normal' --  If you have an egg-laying breed they will tend to have a slighter build -- and yes, they do gain weight as they grow -- Maybe it is just a matter of time.....

Click to expand...

shiningeyes said:

I have two Plymouth barred rocks a black sex link and an Easter egger. The EE and BSL are the youngest and boniest. Their poop looks normal from what I can tell by the charts but these are my first. They are eating non-medicated chick feed. They don't seem listless by any means. They run around the broader like crazy. But they have been having some sneezing.

Click to expand...

junebuggena said:

It's the keel bone, and in a healthy bird, you are supposed to be able to feel it. The only type you shouldn't be able to feel it is in Broiler types, due to their enormous 'breast' muscles. Chicks are quite boney little creatures. They are putting all their energy into growing, and growing in feathers. Muscle comes later. Sneezing occasionally is not a cause for concern. Chicks produce a lot of dust, and that dust can make them sneeze, as can small particles from shavings or feed.

Click to expand...

junebuggena said:

It's the keel bone, and in a healthy bird, you are supposed to be able to feel it. The only type you shouldn't be able to feel it is in Broiler types, due to their enormous 'breast' muscles. Chicks are quite boney little creatures. They are putting all their energy into growing, and growing in feathers. Muscle comes later. Sneezing occasionally is not a cause for concern. Chicks produce a lot of dust, and that dust can make them sneeze, as can small particles from shavings or feed.

Click to expand...