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How do I get the chick to drink on it's own?

Discussion in 'Raising Baby Chicks' started by rcentner, Sep 21, 2009.

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  1. Sep 21, 2009 #1
    rcentner

    rcentner Chillin' With My Peeps

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    I put the water in a small dish (very small so it doesn't drown) and tried to dip it's beak in it, but it doesn't get it! I have been syringe feeding it water..it takes a peck at each drop that comes out, but I would feel much better if I could just leave it to do it on it's own. I am gonna try a hamster waterer today...ya know one of the bottles that has the metal ball in it. Hope it works. Any other suggestions? I don't have any official small chicken waterers. I am afraid to buy one at this point cause this is the only chick I plan to raise without it's mama. It eats great and poops too well [​IMG]
     
  3. Sep 21, 2009 #2
    redhen

    redhen Kiss My Grits... Premium Member

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    be very careful with the syringe..if you dont know exactly what you are doing you can get water in its lungs.
    I put my finger in the water and splash it around to get their interest...and dip their beak..
    also..wet his food..that will help with getting water in him a little bit..
     
  5. Sep 21, 2009 #3
    spydertoys

    spydertoys Chillin' With My Peeps

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    I use an older chick as a trainer..if I have one 1-2 weeks old.
    They will follow his lead.
     
  7. Sep 21, 2009 #4
    ThePamperedPullet

    ThePamperedPullet Chillin' With My Peeps

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    It also might not be thirsty yet. For the first three days they are pretty much living off the yolk sac. Take the little chick in your hand about every four hours and gently dip his beak into the water dish. Turn him upright so that he can swallow. He will catch on quick.
    Good luck with your little one. He will be fine.
     
  9. Sep 21, 2009 #5
    cmom

    cmom Hilltop Farm

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    I agree with the other posts. You have to be very careful. If the chick is eating ok then I suspect it may be taking in water ok too, but I would wet the feed a little if your not sure. I have been lucky and have only had one chick that wouldn't eat or drink and it did die after I tried to help it. I guess it just wasn't meant to be.
     

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