shavings and baby chicks

[coachwife2004]

So I'm taking the plunge and will pick up my 5 baby cochins on Feb 5 I'm terrified!!!

Is it ok to use plain paper in the bottom of the cage or do you have to have shavings? Anything else for my first few days would be great! Thanks

 

[chasep]

id use pine shavings

 

[JustChicky]

Hello.

I use paper towels under my chicks for the first few days, until they find their food, then they don't eat as much of the shavings. Then I take out the paper towels and they kick the shavings everywhere and nuzzle in them!

I have used newspaper on my older pullets but it makes their feet black/gray. But you can't use newspaper under the chicks because it is too slippery and could cause spraddle leg.

 

[RHewitt]

Place paper towels on top of the newspaper so the chicks want slip an slide on the slick paper. After a few days their legs will be strong and the paper will work fine. I would plan on using wood shavings after a while but DO NOT USE shavings with cedar in it. The fumes and oils can be toxic to chicks. Be sure when you take them out of the carton to dip their beaks into the water a couple of times so they will know where it is and can get their first drink.
Good luck

 

[wohneli]

There are a bazillion threads on here and on most hatchery sites (see links) that will give instructions on chick care. No need to be terrified, you will do fine.
http://www.ideal-poultry.com/care.htm
http://www.cacklehatchery.com/page14.html
http://www.mcmurrayhatchery.com/faqtop.html
Good Luck and welcome to the addiction!!!

 

[allaboutdemchicks]

Congratulations...you will make a fine chickiemomma, we are all backing you!!

 

[#1California Chick]

Welcome to BYC!!!

Don't worry -- you can come back here at any time to ask questions!!!

Again, welcome!!

Cindy

 

[jforsness]

I'm a huge fan of paper towels, go for it