Provide a warm brooder with a heat lamp or brooder plate
Keep the brooder temperature around 95°F for the first week
Lower the temperature by about 5°F each week
Use clean, dry bedding such as pine shavings
Keep bedding away from heat sources
Provide fresh water at all times
Use a shallow waterer to prevent drowning
Add clean marbles or pebbles to the waterer if needed
Offer chick starter feed with proper protein content
Keep feed available at all times
Do not feed adult chicken feed to young chicks
Keep the brooder clean and dry
Remove wet bedding and droppings regularly
Protect chicks from drafts
Avoid overcrowding
Watch for signs of chilling or overheating
Handle chicks gently and minimally at first
Keep them safe from pets and predators
Provide enough space as they grow
Transition them to a larger coop when fully feathered
Introduce outdoor time gradually in safe weather
Monitor health daily for weakness, pasty butt, or illness
Contact a veterinarian if chicks show serious symptoms