Preparing for new chicks

[CityGirlintheCountry]

Now that my coop is done, I am starting to get together all of the supplies I will need for my new chicks (to come in the spring). What do I need to get to start off (including medications to have on hand)? I figured to place an order with Jeffers in the next month or so.

I know I need starter feed, grit, waterer and feeder, diatomaceous earth and pine shavings for the coop. What do y'all recommend from there?

CG

 

[nccatnip]

depending on age/location you might need heat lamps and a thermometer.
I never used medicated feeder and everyone did just fine. I threw a little grit in the brooder box but I think it may not be necessary until they go of starter feed.
If you are getting little ones, I used tons of paper towels over the shavings for about 3-4 days- It helps prevent leg problems and you can monitor the poop better. I would also recommend Q-tips and olive oil in case of pasty butt. (I had over 60 babies of various ages at one time, after one episode of pasty butt, I made it a rule from that point out to rub a ring around their bottoms at 2days old. No more problems with pasty butt)

 

[CityGirlintheCountry]

You olive oil them up whether they show signs of pasty butt or not, like a preventative?

Got the paper towels and heat lamp. Will add thermometer to the list.
thanks!
CG

 

[Pinenot]

I would also carry electrolites. You never know when you wake up and there is a sluggish one.

 

[CityGirlintheCountry]

Special chicken electrolytes or something like pedialite?

 

[dbjay417]

excellent thread. Maybe they have a new corn flavor of gatorade.