​Day-Old Chick Care Guide

Helping your chicks thrive from day one!

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Arrival Instructions

Start here the moment your chicks arrive.

1. Unpack Immediately
Gently remove chicks from the shipping box as soon as they arrive. Check each chick for signs of stress, weakness, or injury.

2. Hydration is Critical
Prepare warm (95°F) water with a small amount of sugar (1 tablespoon per quart). Dip each chick’s beak into the water to encourage drinking.

3. Prevent Drowning
Use a shallow chick waterer and add clean marbles or pebbles to prevent chicks from falling in and drowning.

4. Delay Feeding Briefly
Allow 1–2 hours for chicks to fully hydrate before offering food. Hydration helps reduce shipping stress and encourages appetite.

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Brooder Setup

A safe, clean environment is key to your chicks’ early health.

- Container: Use a plastic tote or stock tank—at least 12" tall with room for growth.

- Heat Source: A red heat bulb in a clamp lamp. Avoid white lights at night and do not use heat plates for day-old shipped chicks, as they may not recognize them as heat sources.

- Temperature: Start at 95°F. Lower the temp by 5°F each week until they’re fully feathered (around 6 weeks old).

- Placement: Position the heat source to one side so chicks can self-regulate, moving between warm and cool zones.

- Bedding: Use pine shavings, paper towels, or straw. Never use cedar—it’s toxic. Keep bedding dry and change as needed.

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Feeding & Hydration

- Feed: Use a quality chick starter (18-20%) feed. Crumbles are easiest for tiny beaks.

- Water: Always provide clean, room-temperature water. Change daily.

- No Treats Yet: Avoid kitchen scraps, grit, or scratch grains during the first week. Let their digestive system develop gradually.

- Clean Daily: Wash feeders and waterers regularly to prevent disease.

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Health & Safety Tips

- Pasty Butt: A common issue where droppings block the vent. Clean gently with warm water and apply coconut oil to prevent recurrence.

- Lethargy or Chilling: Chicks should be active and peeping. Cold or weak chicks need immediate warming and hydration.

- Ventilation: Ensure good airflow without drafts. Avoid ammonia buildup from droppings.

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Quick Checklist

• ✔ Warm brooder with heat lamp

• ✔ Thermometer

• ✔ Electrolyte mix or sugar

• ✔ Starter feed

• ✔ Chick waterer (with marbles)

• ✔ Bedding (no cedar!)

• ✔ Clean towels or paper towels

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Need Help?

We’re here for you!

📧 Email: sales@valleyfarmshatchery.com