Why is my chick not eating or drinking?
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Overview
If your chick isn't eating or drinking, it may be due to stress, cold, weakness, poor access to feed or water, or an underlying illness. Chicks can go downhill quite quickly, so it's worth checking the basics straight away and keeping a close eye on them.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the chick is still active, alert and able to stand normally.
2. Make sure it can actually reach feed and water without being pushed away by larger chicks or adults.
3. Look at the brooder or coop temperature, because chicks may eat and drink less if they are too cold or too hot.
4. Check the water for cleanliness, depth and access, and make sure it is easy for the chick to use safely.
5. Look for signs of drooping, puffing up, soiling around the vent, pasted down feathers, coughing or sneezing.
6. Check the beak, mouth and crop area for obvious swelling, injury, blockage or unusual fullness.
7. Note whether the chick has recently been moved, introduced to a new group or exposed to a change in feed or environment.
Common Causes
The most common reasons are stress, temperature problems, poor access to feed or water, or simply being too weak or unsettled to compete with others.
It can also happen with digestive upset, a mouth or crop problem, dehydration, parasites, or an infection.
Less commonly, a chick may have a more serious illness or developmental problem that needs veterinary attention.
What To Do
Separate the chick if it is being bullied or unable to get to food and water.
Keep the brooder warm, dry and draft-free, and make sure the chick can move away from the heat if needed.
Offer fresh, clean water and a suitable chick feed in shallow, easy-to-reach containers.
Watch closely over the next few hours for any change in activity, droppings, balance or breathing.
If the chick is very weak, not drinking at all, or seems to be worsening, get veterinary advice promptly.
Products That May Help
Keeping the chick's living area clean and easy to manage may help support routine care while you monitor its appetite and drinking.
Related Questions
Why is my chick puffed up and not eating?
How do I know if a chick is dehydrated?
When should I worry about a chick not drinking?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.