I bought 3 Silkies on the 15th and one died on the 16th and was sick that night gasping for air and stuff. Another one died last night showing no signs of being hurt or cold. Now we have one left and he/she has massive pasty butt. Is it just silkies that aren't as tough? Or is she sick?
Where did you get them? Are they baby chicks? Bantams can be a little more delicate, but a lot of it depends on their treatment in the first days of life. Shipping stress can cause chilling, dehydration, and can lead to pasty butt. Many times in feed stores water will be filled with pine shavings or chicks can be overcrowded and unable to get to their water or food. On arrival, I usually will use electrolytes, such as SaveChick in the water or give a few drops of Poultry Nutri-Drench, and then dip their beaks in water several times to get a jump start. I'm so sorry that you lost your chicks. I would contact the seller and get them replaced right away.
