Poop Butts on Chicks

[SaraF]

We got chicks about a week ago. Majority were orphingtons, and delwares. 3 black frizzles, 2 seabrights, and 4 white wyandotte bantams (sorry for spelling) chicks. Well I noticed they started to develop poop build-up on just the white wyandotte bantams. I tried to clean it off with a wet paper towel but not much came off, it was rather hard. They have been acting kind of sick lately. Im not sure if its becuase they are the smallest of the group and getting picked on or something else.
Is there a way I can clean the poop buildup off them and them further keep it off.
Thanks.

 

[friskebluegills]

We had that same problem with our cochins. We just used warm water, but I think you could use a very mild soap. It does come off kind of hard. If your able, I'd check on them a few times a day so you can get it before it dries. We actually ended up loosing 3 because of it

I hope yours turn out better

Once they get feathers that problem will stop, so if you can make it until then you'll be in the clear.

 

[birdicus7]

If you don't remove it so they can relieve themselves they will die. I use an old wash cloth soak it in lukewarm water because you don't want to change their temperature or give them a chill. Hold it on them for a little while to soften the dried poop and it will come off. Sometimes you can roll the hard lump in between your fingers through the wash cloth and it will break up...You must remove it ASAP. The problem will clear up after a few days, usually one removal will resolve the issue for you. Add a little plain yogurt to their feed will help establish beneficial bacteria in their system and will help the condition also.

 

[Sweetpeaswan]

This is a very common problem in chicks..it's called pasty butt...it can lead to a chicken's version
of constipation. The other members have given you sound advise..the only thing i also found is
that if you loose some fluff and they have a bare bottom. I put corona ointment on it,helps heal.
keep those tiny hineys clean

 

[squeakyballs]

I've heard that you can offer them a bit of fine sand (like from a sand box or a box of grit meant for parrots) and that it will help. Mix it in with their food and sprinkle some about. A few people here have mentioned that it is more likely to happen if the chicks are too cold.

Good luck!