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Safe Treats for Newly Hatched Chicks?
Posted: Mon Feb 10, 2025 2:41 am
by CrowingMystic
I just had a successful hatch of seven adorable chicks! Theyre active, chirping, and doing great so far. Id love to give them a little treat, but Im unsure whats safe for them at this age. I have other birds and was wondering if something like crushed parakeet seed would be okay, or if theres a better option.
What do you all recommend for young chicks as their first treats?
Re: Safe Treats for Newly Hatched Chicks?
Posted: Mon Feb 10, 2025 7:25 am
by FeatherFlux
Try dipping your finger in water and touching their feed,they'll peck at it out of curiosity, which helps them transition to solid food if they're hesitant.
Re: Safe Treats for Newly Hatched Chicks?
Posted: Tue Feb 11, 2025 3:47 am
by FlockVoyager
I let my chicks peck at fresh sprouts when they're about a week old. Alfalfa or wheatgrass is easy to grow and adds some natural variety to their diet!
Re: Safe Treats for Newly Hatched Chicks?
Posted: Tue Feb 11, 2025 5:08 pm
by GardenFowlGuru
I've had success with finely chopped hard-boiled eggs for new chicks. They love it, and it's a great source of protein to support early growth!
Re: Safe Treats for Newly Hatched Chicks?
Posted: Tue Feb 11, 2025 11:20 pm
by FlockGuardian
Chicks that young do best on their starter feed, but if you want to add variety, you can try finely chopped greens like dandelion or lettuce. Just a little at a time!
Re: Safe Treats for Newly Hatched Chicks?
Posted: Wed Feb 12, 2025 12:15 am
by HenVentor
I raise chicks often, and their first "treat" is usually soft mashed banana or plain yogurt. Both are gentle on their digestion and a fun way to bond with them!
Re: Safe Treats for Newly Hatched Chicks?
Posted: Wed Feb 12, 2025 12:40 am
by NestNurturer
I avoid treats for at least the first week, but once they're a little older, tiny bits of finely chopped fruit or veggies can be a fun addition.
Re: Safe Treats for Newly Hatched Chicks?
Posted: Thu Feb 13, 2025 2:51 pm
by FeatheredTrailblazer
If you do give them treats, make sure they also have chick-sized grit available to help with digestion. Even soft foods like scrambled eggs digest better with a little grit.
Re: Safe Treats for Newly Hatched Chicks?
Posted: Mon Feb 17, 2025 3:16 am
by CoopRebel
CrowingMystic wrote: Mon Feb 10, 2025 2:41 am
I just had a successful hatch of seven adorable chicks! Theyre active, chirping, and doing great so far. Id love to give them a little treat, but Im unsure whats safe for them at this age. I have other birds and was wondering if something like crushed parakeet seed would be okay, or if theres a better option.
What do you all recommend for young chicks as their first treats?
Congrats on your hatch! At this age, they don't really need treats, but if you want to spoil them a little, mashed boiled egg yolk is a great option.
Re: Safe Treats for Newly Hatched Chicks?
Posted: Tue Feb 18, 2025 4:25 am
by HenAndTonic
I've found that chicks love little bits of soft fruit like mashed blueberries or chopped apple. Just be sure to introduce new foods slowly and in tiny amounts!