I like the Purina Medicated Start & Grow (red bag- and it's some kind of vinyl so I make cool tote-bags out of them) unless they been vaccinated for Cocci - then the medicated nullifies any immunity. It's (The Purina) is not as powdery as some others, so they'll be less waste. I have 10 chicks and 50 lbs. lasted 6 weeks, but I also make them a "meal" everyday. I just switched them to flock raiser today and they seem to really like it. And the TerraMigo natural pine bedding. It's pelleted, absorbent and not so dusty.
I was introduced to apple cider vinegar on this site. I use Braggs raw- unfiltered. It says 'from the Mother' on the label. I use 1 capful per qt. waterer. I used to give them their choice of plain, too, but they only drank the ACV. I chopped up old-fashioned oatmeal to sprinkle on top of their food once a day from about day 3 and I still give them a handful, no longer chopped, every morning. The maniacs now expect it. Introduce them to yogurt soon, you can mix it up with a little starter. Less messy and they like it. By all means, read about 'poopy butt'. It's pretty much a given. I don't envy you there! You'll find this site to be a great info center. I'm excited for you. they are so fun.
