1 chick failing to thrive (EDIT: chick died)

[26peeps]

So we got a batch of McMurray egg layer chicks (25) which ended up being 27. We got extras. Good thing, too, because we had 1 "SIDS" death on day 2. Now they are a week old and there is just one other chick I'm worried about - all others are getting a few feathers and doing great. What would you do about the sickly chick? Euthanize? Let nature take its course? Isolate and see if it lives? We have a big greenhouse and garden to care for, as well as other fowl and dogs to care for, not to mention everyday life. Not much time to nurse it, but will be glad to hear YOUR suggestions if you have a minute out of this busy Spring day. Thanks.

 

[sonjab314]

Have you tried to put electrolytes in the water?

 

[sourland]

If it were me, I would cull the chick. Generally unthrifty chicks remain unhealthy and susceptible to parasites and disease throughout their lives thus presenting a possible danger to the flock.

 

[nordicacres]

We had that happen to us. Three died in the first 4-5 days and one nearly died. I nursed him back to health (Cornish X). He is doing well now (6 weeks), but he is probably a third of the size of the others. As a layer I don't think it would work, but I'm sure he'll taste just fine

 

[3riverschick]

Hi,

Isolate that chick and give it some Poultry Nutri-Drench to see if it is just a nutrition problem.
1-2 drops by mouth, repeating as needed every 8 to 10 hours. If it is just travel and adjusting stress, this should
get the chick past it in a day. http://www.nutridrench.com Tractor Supply at 6.99, lowest price I have found anywhere.
You can also use the Goat formula, just use the poultry usage and dosage instructions. I raised by 42 chicks
last year on it as always. 2ml in the water for the 1st month. All healthy chicks, I used the Goat formula this year,
cheaper and used the poultry usage instructions. . Gets them off to a strong start.
Here, read post number 4 in this thread. It will tell you what to do while you deal with the stress which is affecting your chicks.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/976434/i-need-help
also the 1st post in the thread:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/746509/how-to-deal-with-travel-stress-in-baby-chicks
My formula water looks like the color of very weak tea.
Best,
Karen

 

[26peeps]

This thread is now moot. Found the chick dead. Thanks to those who answered. I'll have more options if (God forbid) it should ever happen again.