Electrolytes or Sugar in day-old chick water?

[Chickiee]

Hi!
I've heard that when we get our day-old chicks, we should give them an electrolyte supplement in their water for the first week. I've also heard just use electrolytes the first couple days. I've also heard just use sugar. Any thoughts? Do all these options have the same result?... stronger healthier chicks... we obviously want to give them the best start possible.
Thanks!

 

[ChickensAreSweet]

The McMurray chick care page recommends sugar water initially and that is what I do. I never give Elytes.

Here it is:
http://www.mcmurrayhatchery.com/chickcare.html

 

[Chickiee]

Great! I'm assuming nothing special about the sugar... just plain granulated sugar? I was thinking the sugar and electrolytes probably did the same thing... just a little extra "oomph" energy. Is there a reason not to give electrolytes?
Thanks!

 

[ChickensAreSweet]

Great! I'm assuming nothing special about the sugar... just plain granulated sugar? I was thinking the sugar and electrolytes probably did the same thing... just a little extra "oomph" energy. Is there a reason not to give electrolytes?
Thanks!

Just plain granulated sugar is fine. The electrolyte packs at my feed store also have vitamins. I try to avoid artificial vitamins wherever possible...just personal opinion is all. Many on BYC do feed those packs but I don't know how many use them for all new chicks.