How can I make my chicks like me?

[thecatumbrella]

Thanks for your response. How do I handle poopy butt without handling? They seem it get it a lot. (They are mixed breed bantams and quite fuzzy)

Unfortunately, you’ll have to handle them for that. I try to make it as calm as possible, using cotton balls soaked in warm water to loosen any stuck on debris (rather than placing them directly in water or under the faucet). I’m actually working on an article now with my technique, but it’s not finished yet.

Once they’re older and they’re done their juvenile molts, I’ll give them a butt trim with safety scissors, right below the vent.

 

[thecatumbrella]

Also, if you’re going to try treats, make sure to purchase some chick grit. They can break down their crumble without it, but I offer grit as soon as they start eating other things.

Treats should be in very, very small amounts, especially when young. I personally don’t offer them until they move outside (at 5-6 weeks), but everyone has their own way of doing things.

Edit: On second thought, this isn’t 100% true. I offer hot mash by hand, which is just their crumble mixed with a bit of hot water (to make an oatmeal consistency). So I’ve been known to play the food card!

 

[thecatumbrella]

Oh boy. What beautiful, unique colored chicks you have there. Here's two pictures of my cutie pue, Patty Pan almost a year ago. She is an Easter Egger. Almost all grown up now. They grow so fast.

Thank you! They were quite the lookers. Easter Eggers come in so many fun colors as well. Your baby is adorable!

 

[djzcat]

Also, if you’re going to try treats, make sure to purchase some chick grit. They can break down their crumble without it, but I offer grit as soon as they start eating other things.

Treats should be in very, very small amounts, especially when young. I personally don’t offer them until they move outside (at 5-6 weeks), but everyone has their own way of doing things.

Edit: On second thought, this isn’t 100% true. I offer hot mash by hand, which is just their crumble mixed with a bit of hot water (to make an oatmeal consistency). So I’ve been known to play the food card!

I like your idea of hot mash. I've been experiencing a VERY cold winter in Pennsylvania. Below zero several times. I've been offering my adults catchow softened with warm water. Not alot, and just once a week. My line of thought, extra protein and carbs to warm them. What's your thought on this.

 

[Beaus plus baby Bunny]

Chickens are prey animals. Everything/ everyone wants to eat them. Fear is a survival mechanism. Don't take it personally. Don't move quickly around them, don't grab at them. Good advice above. Take a book and chill with them. Scatter treats around your feet and let them discover you're not a threat.

try reading to them, mine also enjoy calming music. my rooster likes lady gaga for some reason though

 

[djzcat]

Unfortunately, you’ll have to handle them for that. I try to make it as calm as possible, using cotton balls soaked in warm water to loosen any stuck on debris (rather than placing them directly in water or under the faucet). I’m actually working on an article now with my technique, but it’s not finished yet.

Once they’re older and they’re done their juvenile molts, I’ll give them a butt trim with safety scissors, right below the vent.

The warm water on a cotton ball is an excellent idea for chick poopy butter. In the past, I put a couple drops of mineral oil on my thumb and index finger and gently massage the poop in my fingers. It softens quickly but then the possibility of oil left behind. So just the warm water idea of yours is better

 

[thecatumbrella]

I like your idea of hot mash. I've been experiencing a VERY cold winter in Pennsylvania. Below zero several times. I've been offering my adults catchow softened with warm water. Not alot, and just once a week. My line of thought, extra protein and carbs to warm them. What's your thought on this.

I know some people offer cat food as a treat, but I would limit it to 1 tablespoon per bird/per day (same as any treat) to ensure their nutrition doesn't get thrown off. Hot mash made with crumble obviously doesn't have those limits. They can eat their fill!

The warm water on a cotton ball is an excellent idea for chick poopy butter. In the past, I put a couple drops of mineral oil on my thumb and index finger and gently massage the poop in my fingers. It softens quickly but then the possibility of oil left behind. So just the warm water idea of yours is better

I'm guessing oil makes the cleanup job faster, but I can see not wanting a residue (especially if their brooder mates notice and start picking at it). Honestly, do whatever works!