Wobbley Chick

[raynelson]

I have one chick that is 3 weeks old and doesn't seem to be growing like the others only about half thier size. It eats and drinks fine no pasty butt just unsteady on its feet. I have wood shavings in the brooder pen when I put her on a hard serface she seems fine not shacky at all. Anyone have any ideas?

 

[Avalongirl83]

That is strange and could be the onset of an illness or simply the result of an injury. Keep a close eye for any more developing symptoms. Does she only have troubles walking on the shavings? Do you have a wire cage with shavings or is it a flat bottom with shavings? Does the chick peep loudly and constantly? Is she showing signs of lethergy (sleeps a lot, doesn't run when other chicks run, stays lying down?) Is her head straight and level or cocked to one side?

 

[raynelson]

Yes it only seems to be on the shavings the brooder is a flat surface, she doesn't peep much she sleeps but will get up and take off when the others do she seems quick to respond just shaky at first. Her head doesn't seem to be cocked. Thanks for the quick response.

 

[Avalongirl83]

That's a tough one! Maybe she just isn't thriving as fully as the others. That can happen sometimes. I'd say get Save a Chick or Nutri-Drench to add to their water and give her a little boost. Other than that, I've got nothing. Since she only does it on the pine and you don't have her in a wire cage (some chicks really have a hard time with bottoms with holes) maybe its just one of those weird things chickens do sometimes without explaination. Do keep an eye out for any additional symtoms. Sounds like you are doing a great job keeping an eye on them!