Coffee farming in Uganda

 A One-Day-Old Chick

One-day-old chicks are the most fragile and hectic, according to poultry farmers. From their living, feeding, and health, they need a lot of attention and care. At this stage, chicks are so weak; catering for them is a bit tiresome and intense. It is a stage where mostly local farmers or small farmers lose their chicks due to poor feeding and health.

A Complete Guide to Catering and Managing a One-Day-Old Chick into a Fully Grown Chicken

Feeding

On their first day at the farm, one-day-old chicks drink energy boosters in soluble form like Energy Plus for at least 3 hours before feeding. This will help chicks energize and also boost their food appetite. Feed them first with pre-starter and starter food with small particles chicks can feed on with ease.

Heat Regulation

Heat is one of the most essential necessities for one-day-old chicks. Chicks can't regulate enough body heat on their own. Ensure they access enough heat to keep their bodies warm and strong using recommended charcoal stoves or electric bulbs that can provide enough heat. This prevents chicks from cold-related diseases like flu.

Cover the floor using Brooder paper

Cover the chick floor with brooder paper for one week. It acts as a layer that separates chicks and coffee husks to prevent them from eating coffee husks as food. If chicks feed on coffee husks or other external particles that can't be digested, their system fails and they die.

Immunization

The immunization phase of one-day-old chicks is done in four stages. On the first day, chicks should drink water containing all vitamins to help boost their immune system. They should also receive their first immunization dosage.

After one week, immunize them with syrups like Gomboro and Newcastle—administer one drop in one eye per chick to ensure they are protected from deadly viral infections. Continue with the remaining immunization doses at recommended intervals according to veterinary guidelines to ensure full protection against common poultry diseases.

Safety

Ensure the chicks are in a safe environment away from predators like cats and rats. Always maintain clean water and food. Sanitize feeding equipment regularly and ensure no wetness in the brooder. Wet conditions cause diseases and respiratory problems in chicks. Monitor the chicks daily and isolate any that show signs of weakness or illness.

Conclusion

After one month of following these steps, your chicks will be at the middle stage of their growth heavy and healthy. With proper feeding, enough warmth, timely immunization, and safety measures, one-day-old chicks can grow into strong, productive adult chickens. Early care is the key to a successful poultry journey.