my delaware chicks are about 8 weeks old now, but are almost full feathered. it got really hot today where i'm at, i would say low 90's. the girls all seemed warm, they were panting even after i had changed their waters and gave them a bowl with some ice water in hopes that it might cool them down. it's later in the evening now, still in the upper 70's though. most of the chicks are acting fine, some still panting, but the biggest concern is one of my chicks that we named goosey. she's panting heavily and it looks like she might've thrown up. she was roosting and clearish liquid came from her mouth. i'm wondering if any of you have had an experience like this and know what to do? should i take goosey to the vet? they chicks are inside in a large box by the window which i've opened. they're old enough now that i've turned off the brooder lights in the box. they do have plenty of room to move around and sufficient access to water and food. so i'm concerned about what is wrong. i didn't give the girls any kind of scratch or treats today because it was too warm. thanks for all of your comments/suggestions/help. jeremy.
You might try electrolytes in the water when it is warm. The little ones don't have their internal thermostats regulated yet. It could be that it drank excessively to keep cool.
Maybe adding a oscillating fan near the brooder to move the air around a bit. I have one about 15 feet from the brooder, angled above it to circulate the air midday when it is really warm. The temp in the brooder stays around 80 and they are comfortable and no panting...they are 6 weeks old tomorrow. Just make sure it is angled above the brooder so they do not get a draft and see if that helps...the elctrolytes are another excellent idea too. Good luck with them.
Maybe try a slice of watermelon while it is hot so they get some nourishment and hydration?(Thanks Lady Di!) Also the electrolytes are ESSENTIAL for chicks.....not expensive but they really will save your chicks
if they are panting continuously then they need electrolytes in the water... Cooling the feet is actually an excellent way to get their body temps cooled down... I pupt some bird sand in the plastic underpart of a huge rabbit cage and fill that with really cold water...adding ice blocks throughout the day as it warms up and evaporates (I place it in a cavity I have dug out for it in a shady spot) The sand keeps them from slipping on the plastic and they seem to like to snuggle in it if it is very warm.
