I started this thread under "Raising chicks." but thought that I would put it here, too. I started my newest chicks on medicated feed for ~1wk, then switched to unmedicated with probiotics. I have 2 sets of chicks (one at 1.5wks and one at 7 wks - the older ones got medicated feed for about 2 wks). As the chicks are inside and their droppings fall down through wire mesh onto a puppy training pad, I am able to see what they look like. ~4 days ago I noticed what looked like a small amount of blood in a young chicks stool and then yesterday, one of my 4 older chicks also had what appears to be blood in her stool (gelatinous pink/red slime). Although they are near each other inside, they are not in the same cage. And the young chicks have never been outside (the older ones have been out ~4 times - I know enough to get bacteria, worms, anything else they eat). Is it possible these 2 episodes mean nothing, or should I start medicating? And if yes to medication, what should I use (antibiotics, dewormer, both, etc)? At this point they all seem to be eating and drinking well, have good energy and seem content, although I know birds like to pretend they are healthy so they do not get picked on. Thanks for any insight. One of my other questions is as coccidia is to be suppressed until the bird can tolerate the disease, is just returning them to medicated feed enough if this is coccidiosis?
PS they are to be layers and therefore only want to use medications considered safe in potentially laying chickens
PS they are to be layers and therefore only want to use medications considered safe in potentially laying chickens
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