Why is my chick not growing and looks underweight?
Share This Guide
Read time: 3 minutes
Overview
If a chick isn’t growing well and looks underweight, there are several possible reasons. The most common are not eating enough, being outcompeted by other chicks, being too cold or too warm, or having a health issue that’s reducing appetite or making it hard to absorb nutrients.
It’s worth checking the basics first, because many growth problems are linked to feeding, temperature, stress or hygiene rather than something more serious. If the chick is losing weight, seems weak, or is still not improving after changes, veterinary advice is sensible.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the chick is actually eating and drinking regularly, and whether it is being pushed away by stronger chicks.
2. Look at the droppings for changes such as diarrhoea, blood, very pale poo or signs that the chick is not digesting feed properly.
3. Make sure the brooder temperature is suitable, because being too cold can stop chicks from eating enough and being too hot can make them weak and quiet.
4. Check the feed itself. Chicks need the right starter feed, kept fresh and dry, with clean water always available.
5. Watch for a tucked-up posture, dull feathers, a droopy stance, wheezing, sneezing or a chick that sits apart from the rest.
6. Feel gently over the body to see if the chick is simply small or if the breastbone is becoming more prominent than expected.
7. Look for signs of bullying, crowding, poor access to feeders, or bedding that may be making it hard for the chick to move about normally.
Common Causes
The most common cause is not getting enough feed or water, often because the chick is smaller, weaker, or being outcompeted.
Temperature problems are also very common. Chicks that are too cold may huddle, eat less and use energy to stay warm instead of growing. Chicks that are too warm may become inactive and not feed properly.
Poor-quality, stale or unsuitable feed can also slow growth. So can dirty water, dirty bedding, overcrowding and general stress.
Less commonly, ongoing poor growth may be linked to parasites, infection, digestive problems or a birth defect. These are not something you can confirm at home just by looking, so a vet may need to assess the chick if it’s not improving.
What To Do
Start by making sure the chick has easy access to fresh water and an appropriate starter feed. If it is being bullied away from food, separate it briefly so you can see how much it is actually eating.
Check the brooder setup and adjust it so the chick can move comfortably between warmer and cooler areas. Keep bedding dry, remove soiled material promptly and make sure feeders and drinkers are easy to reach.
Weigh the chick if you can, then monitor its weight at the same time each day or every few days. That gives you a clearer picture than judging by appearance alone.
If more than one chick is affected, look closely at the whole setup, including feed, water, temperature, stocking density and hygiene.
If the chick continues to lose weight, becomes weak, stops eating, or has abnormal droppings or breathing, arrange veterinary advice promptly.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact a vet if the chick is getting thinner, seems weak, is not eating or drinking, has diarrhoea or blood in the droppings, is breathing oddly, or is separate from the rest of the group and not improving after you’ve checked feed, water and temperature.
Young chicks can deteriorate quickly, so it’s best not to wait if the problem is worsening or you’re unsure what’s causing it.
Products That May Help
Keeping the brooder, coop and feeding area clean and well managed can make day-to-day care easier when a chick isn’t thriving. This collection may help support routine hygiene and flock care.
Related Questions
Why is my chick separated from the others?
How can I tell if a chick is eating enough?
When should a weak chick be seen by a vet?
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.