Baby chicks have diarrhea

[kruss]

I got 5 baby chicks a week and a half ago when they were about 2 days old. They are eating and drinking well. I noticed earlier that one of them has passed a dark brown like diarrhea stool. None of them are acting any different but I just wanted to see if this was ok or if I should be concerned. I change their feed and water at least once a day and I keep their shavings clean as well. They are eating chick starter and I'm not giving them treats yet bc I wasn't sure if they were old enough to have them. Any advice would be greatly appreciated

 

[Chicken Master1]

I dont think that there is anything wrong with it... even some adult chickens get diarrhea. It should be fine

 

[kruss]

Ok thank you! Are there any things that I should specifically be looking for health wise with these babies?

 

[cafarmgirl]

Chicks, and chickens, make several different kinds of poops and some of them are just a dark brown, more liquidy type, these are also much stinkier! These are normal.

With chicks probably the number one thing to be aware of and just watch for is coccidiosis. It's very common. Chicks will go from completely normal to suddenly lethargic, standing around hunched or puffed up, not wanting to eat or drink. It's a very good idea for anyone raising chicks to keep Corid, either powder or liquid, on hand to treat just in case it flares up. TIme is of the essence and you don't want to have to be searching around town for it when chicks are sick.

Other then that, you can watch for pasty butt too. If you see that just gently clean it off with warm water. You can put a little vaseline or olive oil on the area to prevent further sticking. A teaspoon per quart of water of raw apple cider vinegar (such as Bragg's) does wonders preventing pasty butt. Check that your brooder temps are too warm, that can cause dehydration and result in pasty butt.

 

[kruss]

Ok thank y'all very much!!

 

[CatLindsey]

Just found this and your advice is very timely! Had 30 chicks shipped this week and you’re spot on as to the effects of being stress from shipping, electrolytes and vinegar’s benefits. 25 developed pasty vents upon arrival. We washed them, added vinegar to their water and backed off on the lamps. Thanks!