What i need for chicks

[janeimmel]

What do i need for a 1-4 week old chicks?
I

 

[KaylorFarms]

Grit is the most important thing for chicks, A heat lamp, and chick starter. Is this what you mean?

 

[janeimmel]

Yes, thank you!
Do you know what temperature it always has to be? And do you recommend any brands or will anything do? Also, by chick starter do you mean like those starter packs or do you mean chick starter like feed?

 

[KaylorFarms]

I mean chick starter feed. You will need grit, I recommend the temperature being 95 when you first get them. Then turn it down 5 degrees every week. I also recommend medicated feed, its the same price as non medicated and it prevents coccidiosis. Which is a common disease in chickens.

Hope this helps!!

 

[janeimmel]

Great, thanks so much!

 

[hempsteadjb]

I was told I didn't need grit if I use the chick starter...should I get some? I got my chicks on Friday and they seem to be doing well.

 

[sjango]

I'm lurking, as I'm getting my first batch of chicks soon, and want to make sure I don't miss anything!

 

[sjango]

I've heard pine shavings are the way to go for bedding. Are there any other bedding materials I can safely use for new chicks?

 

[chickensss9]

Keep them warm and dry but make their area big enough so that you have a heat lamp at one end and if they need to they can go to the other end to cool off.

 

[TattooedChicks]

If you are only feeding chick starter, the grit can wait. But once you add treats, the grit will help them digest it. Also, having a cool spot in the brooder is just as important as heat, they will need to be able to regulate their bodies between the two zones to prevent over heating. So stay away from those 250w bulbs, they are too strong for a small chick operation.