New to chickens

[catro12]

Hey there. I'm hoping my chicks come in today and I'll be starting a new adventure with backyard chickens. I'm only getting three and I don't think I'll be able to be picky with what breed I get. I've got the brooding box all ready with the light already on. My cats think all that warmth is for them - won't they be surprised! My brother is building the coop based on some of the coops featured right here on this website. I'm so excited! My only concern is for their health. Do I need to feed medicated started feed? Do I need to take them to a vet? Do I need to administer meds? Oh gosh, what do I do? Other than that, I've done lots of research and reading and I think we'll have a long and beautiful relationship. My kids are super-excited and can't wait to run around the yard with the hens. We've been waiting all week for the Tractor Supply store to get their chicks in. Hopefully, today will be the day! ~Cathy

 

[1muttsfan]

Hi and welcome to BYC from northern Michigan

Medicated feed will help prevent your chicks from getting sick from the parasite Coccidia

 

[Player Hater]

Hello and welcome. Build that coop quick, they are only chicks for about 5 minutes!

 

[DDNONIN2016]

Hello and welcome from Ohio...so glad you joined BYC. Have fun with your new chicks. Cant wait to see pics

 

[Twig Worley]

Welcome to BYC from North Carolina!! I too built my Coop off of one I seen on here. It's a great site!!!!!!

 

[redsoxs]

Greetings from Kansas, catro12, and

! Pleased you joined our community! New chicks!

! I think you will do great with them!!

 

[sumi]

Hello and welcome to BYC

Medicated chick starter helps prevent coccidiosis, which is fairly deadly. Personally I'm a prevention-is-better-than-cure follower, so I'd suggest medicated starter. To help your chicks stay healthy you can also give them some organic, unfiltered ACV (apple cider vinegar) in their drink water. It's so good for them! Medicine wise I'd say keep some antibiotics handy, oral and topical. Just in case (like me) you need some and can't get it because it's weekend and the pharmacy's closed! If you want to be really prepared keep a chicken first-aid kit handy. Hopefully you won't need it too often, but it will come in handy if you do. Here's some links for you to browse through:

ACV: https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=50488&p=1

Coccidiosis: https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/coccidiosis-how-to-treat-it

First aid kit: https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=33871

and: https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/517234/medical-treatments-recommended-by-bycers#post_6580204

Enjoy your chicks and remember we're here if you need help or have questions!

 

[BantamFan4Life]

From Washington State!

 

[Kevin565]

 

[sourland]

Cathy, welcome to BYC. Hopefully, you have gotten your chicks.