Just found a dead chick.

[Ms Steak]

One of my silkie chicks was dead under the heater. It was fine a couple of hours ago, running around. I can`t see a reason. It has a clean behind. No obvious injury. It was 9 days old today, hatched at my home. Everything I am using is brand new. Is there any precautions I should take with the others?

 

[barredrock474]

When you got them did you dip there beaks in water to show them how to drink. If not do that now. Put a thermometer under the heat lamp to make sure its not to hot. hope I helped.

 

[Ms Steak]

They have been here since hatch, and have been eating and drinking well. All are growing well. I am using an electric hen, and there is loads of space for them to get away if they are to warm. I am mystified and really upset.

Thanks for trying to help.

 

[fiddlebanshee]

Sometimes you just can't tell. The chick may have had an internal problem that wasn't apparent right away but that prevented survival. Don't beat yourself up. These things happen despite our best efforts. I'm always "glad" (for lack of a better word) when this happens sooner rather than later when I have bonded more with them.

 

[Ms Steak]

Thanks Fiddle. It is all so heartbreaking. So much is invested into those little eggs. I think I will just buy them from now on.

 

[rachlore]

I'm so sorry about your silkie. It could have been too hot and died from dehydration, or fumes from the shavings if you used the right kind, but I would inspect your other babies very carefully. I really am sorry about your loss.

 

[Ms Steak]

I don`t have shavings down yet, as I heard they could eat them. Also, electric hens don`t throw out anything like the heat of a lamp,

Thanks for your help.

 

[rachlore]

It depends on the surface you're using if you want to use shavings. There is a major possibility for a deformity called splayed leg if you don't. I used a metal bucket that fit their size and i was forced to use shaving and they did fine with it, but it really is your choice.

 

[ten chicks]

One of my silkie chicks was dead under the heater. It was fine a couple of hours ago, running around. I can`t see a reason. It has a clean behind. No obvious injury. It was 9 days old today, hatched at my home. Everything I am using is brand new. Is there any precautions I should take with the others?

I would consider treating chicks for cocci(coccidiosis),always my first guess when chicks die. Some symptoms are runny poop(may or may not contain blood)fluffed feathers,lethargic,not eating/drinking watch for symptoms in other chicks. Cocci acts quickly and kills fast. Medicated starter feed does not prevent cocci. If concerned purchase Corid(amprol) Dosage for Corid powder is 1/2 tsp per gallon of water. Dosage for Corid liquid is 2 tsp per gallon of water. Treat all chicks for 5 days,do not give vitamins during treatment(interferes with medication)give vitamins after treatment.

 

[WalkingOnSunshine]

I would consider treating chicks for cocci(coccidiosis),always my first guess when chicks die. Some symptoms are runny poop(may or may not contain blood)fluffed feathers,lethargic,not eating/drinking watch for symptoms in other chicks. Cocci acts quickly and kills fast. Medicated starter feed does not prevent cocci. If concerned purchase Corid(amprol) Dosage for Corid powder is 1/2 tsp per gallon of water. Dosage for Corid liquid is 2 tsp per gallon of water. Treat all chicks for 5 days,do not give vitamins during treatment(interferes with medication)give vitamins after treatment.

Why would you say that medicated starter does not prevent cocci? It is the ONLY thing medicated starter prevents.