New to chicks and I think one is sick

[Nubichicks]

Hi everyone, I'm new to chickens and have only had my babies for a week. I've been visiting this site for advise and tips. I recently noticed some runny dark poop in their box. They all seem fine so I am not sure which chick is sick and keep watching but am still not sure so I have kept them all together. I'm thinking that probably wasn't the best idea. They will probably all get sick now. I'm going to go to the feed store in town and see if they have the meds I need tomorrow. Hopefully they'll be fine.

 

[chicknmania]

It might be cocci. I would try to get them some medicated chick starter (which is Amprol) if they are not already on that. You can keep them all together and just treat them all, it's easier on chicks to stay together. Less stress. At least, at this point. Try the medicated chick starter and see if it helps, then go from there. Just keep a close eye on them. They probably will be fine.

Welcome.

 

[drumstick diva]

you could also post symptoms in detail at "emergencies, diseases, injures, cures," thread

 

[subhanalah]

It is likely just cecal poops. Google "normal chicken poop pictures" and take a look. There is a website with a whole list of what is normal and what is not.

If it is only every 8-10 evacuations, it is completely normal (and stinky!)

 

[gander007]

 

[Kelsie2290]

Hello and Welcome To BYC! X2, if they seem normal otherwise and you are only seeing occasional dark poop, it could just be cecal poop, here is a nice chart like subhanalah mentioned of chicken poop, gives you an idea of what normal poo can look like http://chat.allotment-garden.org/index.php?topic=17568.0

 

[TwoCrows]

Welcome to BYC!

Chickens do pass cecal poop a few times a day that can be dark and smelly. But if you are seeing all poop that is very dark, some of them are fluffed up and not eating or drinking, then you may have cocci in your brooder. Corid will take care of this. You can get this at the feed store, and given for 5 days in the water as the sole drinking water.

Have you stopped by our learning center here on BYC? Lots of great tips on raising your new brood....

https://www.backyardchickens.com/atype/1/Learning_Center

Great to have you aboard and if you have any other questions about your babies, that is what we are here for. Welcome to our flock!

 

[Nubichicks]

Thanks for all the helpful advice! I think my babies are fine! They are all eating and drinking and look good. It was the occasional dark runny poop that made me think I had a sick baby. Now that I have read what everyone has to say and checked out some poop pictures I'm feeling a whole lot better. Thanks again everyone!

 

[subhanalah]

Thanks for all the helpful advice!  I think my babies are fine!  They are all eating and drinking and look good.  It was the occasional dark runny poop that made me think I had a sick baby.  Now that I have read what everyone has to say and checked out some poop pictures I'm feeling a whole lot better. Thanks again everyone!

I highly recommend trying to ferment your feed. It makes the stools a better consistency, and reduces smell

 

[Wyandottes7]

Welcome to BYC!

We're glad to have you.