Chick with closed eyes

[TimG]

Hi,

I have a day old chick whose eyes apparently have never opened. I don't recall ever seeing this before. Is it something that might correct itself within a day or two, or do I have a real problem? Otherwise, the chick appears healthy.

Thanks,
Tim

 

[shadow rabbit10]

I believe it's normal. I ordered chicks from a hatchery and one of them came with both eyes closed. One of the eyes opened in a few hours, the other eye opened in about a week. They should open on their own. Oh, but if it can't see it's food or water, you may want to feed it. Just give the eyes some time, but when it comes to watering and feeding it, you'll need to help it out. Applying warm water to the eyes sometimes helps. Do not try to force them open.

 

[TimG]

Indeed, both eyes opened within 24 hours. Thanks for lessening the worry.