Question about Sav-A-Chick

[cluckmecoop7]

I was about to put Sav-A-Chick electrolytes and probiotics into my chick's water, but I noticed that the main ingredient is Maltodextrin!! Are you sure this will really help the chicks??? I need answers asap.

 

[_-Captain BRM-_]

I have no idea but I mean it's lasted this long...

 

[cluckmecoop7]

I have no idea but I mean it's lasted this long...

I'm thinking it will hurt more than help.

 

[_-Captain BRM-_]

I'm thinking it will hurt more than help.

But thousands of people use it and a lot of the seasoned BYCers suggest it. But maybe you caught something, just an idea

 

[MACCanadianCoop]

Well maltodextrin is a fast absorbing electrolyte, so if that's the purpose, then yes i would say it's better than no electrolytes. But I'm not a chicken dietary expert by any means

 

[BlindLemonChicken]

I don't see why it matters. They need a little boost and highly processed carbohydrates/sugar will provide that. Its not like they're going to be on it their entire lives. I use water additives maybe the first week. If you're worried, you can add a little molasses to the water instead

 

[cluckmecoop7]

I don't see why it matters. They need a little boost and highly processed carbohydrates/sugar will provide that. Its not like they're going to be on it their entire lives. I use water additives maybe the first week. If you're worried, you can add a little molasses to the water instead

How much molasses?

 

[BlindLemonChicken]

How much molasses?

For a chick sized waterer which is about a quart I used maybe a quarter tsp. I never measure it, I just pour a dollop. It will be enough to make the water look a little brown.

 

[coach723]

Maltodextrin is an easily digested carbohydrate that gives a rapid boost. When you have a sick, injured, stressed or dehydrated bird the electrolites can literally be a life saver. There is no reason to give it all the time if your chicks are doing fine. Plain fresh water is all they need.
Too much molasses can cause diahrea.

 

[MACCanadianCoop]

How much molasses?

What exactly are you trying to avoid with the maltodextrin? Because molasses is made of sucrose, fructose and glucose, which are just other forms of sugar.