Treats for baby chicks?

[TheBajan]

My pullets are 9 days old now and I am feeding them Dumor 20% starter/grower chick feed. Today I gave them the cut tops off of strawberries. They spent a good 45 minutes chasing each other around eating them. I was told not to give them chick grit until they are older. I'm wondering though if I should give them some grit since I gave them some strawberries? If so, would I just add some to their chick feed or offer it to them in a separate dish?

 

[SueT]

Yes, they need grit as soon as they start eating other food. Offer it separate.

 

[oregonkat]

Yes, they absolutely need grit. I sprinkle the grit in with the chick feed when I refill the feeder. Layer of feed, thin layer of grit, shake to mix and repeat. Seems to work for me.

 

[Joeschooks]

Yes, they absolutely need grit. I sprinkle the grit in with the chick feed when I refill the feeder. Layer of feed, thin layer of grit, shake to mix and repeat. Seems to work for me.

X2. This is what I do too from about 2 weeks old.

 

[oregonkat]

X2. This is what I do too from about 2 weeks old.

I have also discovered that the much maligned chickweed is, as it's name suggests, ideal for chicks. I pull up as many little plants as I can, and put them in with the roots, dirt and all in the brooder and watch out!! The chicks come flying to dig in. Great chicken TV.

 

[SueT]

I have also discovered that the much maligned chickweed is, as it's name suggests, ideal for chicks. I pull up as many little plants as I can, and put them in with the roots, dirt and all in the brooder and watch out!! The chicks come flying to dig in. Great chicken TV.

Yes! And according to BYC pundits, it's a good idea to give baby chicks some soil....it helps them develop immunity to cocci. The first two weeks is when the greatest benefit occurs.

 

[TheBajan]

Thank you all for your replies! I have so much to learn. I gave them some grit and they wiped it out!

 

[Joeschooks]

Thank you all for your replies! I have so much to learn. I gave them some grit and they wiped it out!

They can overindulge on grit. I would just sprinkle on their food like you would salt your dinner at first