~.Vitamins and Electrolytes.~ Do you use them?

[SundownWaterfowl]

I was wondering how many people use vitamins and electrolytes when their chicks hatch.

Do you use them?
For how long do you use them?
And, why do you use them?
Also, what brand do you use?


I use Durvet brand, because that it what my feedstores have. So its really easy to get.
I always like to use them for at least a week after hatching, or if the chicks are mailed to me. Usually its more like 3-5 weeks. I always use them on my bantam chicks, like Silkies, and Sebrights. I find that it helps them adjust better going from yolk to chick feed. I also like to use it on my call ducks when they hatch, but only if they are hatched in an incubator, not if the mother hatches them.

 

[Wynette]

I use Avia Charge 2000 in their drinking water the first 6 weeks, then taper off & give it in their water once every other week. I just like knowing they are getting everything they need!

 

[Tuffoldhen]

I only use them if I have a weak chick hatching or in the summer time when it's terribly hot I add it to the chicken's waterers for a few days.....I use Durvet too...

 

[SundownWaterfowl]

I also like to make sure that the chicks are getting all the nutrients that they need.

 

[SundownWaterfowl]

Does anybody else have any input on what you do?

 

[PurpleChicken]

I use GCF vitamins and electrolytes for the first few weeks with new chicks.
It's hard to say if they help but there is a pattern emerging indicating they do.

We have had much better luck with runt chick survival rates now that we add
the vitamins to the water. For $5 a pack lasts a long time.

 

[SundownWaterfowl]

Quote:
I find that also. I like to use them for my silkie, and sebright chicks. Since they are tiny bantams, I find it does help.

 

[ravenfeathers]

i had some on hand before i got my chicks in case any of them were unduly stressed, but they were so bouncy and healthy, i never used it. i think both vites and lytes should be used like other supportive medicines: as needed and not as a blanket treatment. i try to use a healthy dose of common sense coupled with a doctrine of non-interference in my husbandry, whether it's horses or chicks. in my experience, the more you muck around, the more you have to muck around.

 

[hinkjc]

I don't use them for freshly hatched chicks at all.

I use them here for adult breeders in extreme heat conditions. When our summer temps get high and I notice birds panting, they get a fresh supply of Durvet V & E to help prevent dehydration.

Jody

 

[KKluckers]

I give the V&E once a week. I think it helps with hatching egg quality and giving the birds that extra little boost.