Chick Start Impacts Livability
Early Chick Mortality
Chick start feed reduces early chick mortality, which is a common problem within the broiler industry. Understanding factors that impact getting chicks started post-placement allows for use of beneficial intervention strategies.
Challenges
A large portion of the total mortality for the growing period occurs following placement into the brooder house. Causes –
- A dehydration problem at 3-4 days post-hatching.
- A starvation problem at 5-7 days post-hatching.
Conditions affecting a healthy start
Upon arrival at placement chicks must quickly begin consuming water and feed to avoid early chick mortality.
- Chicks may arrive dehydrated.
- Some chicks fail to learn to eat and drink. After being off feed for 48 hours, starvation progresses leading to mortality.
Strategy to invigorate your chicks
Water is the most important nutrient for the newly placed chick. Make sure it is fresh and available.
- Water intake stimulates feed intake.
- Key nutritional fortification of the drinking water with in-VIGOR-ate® promotes a vigorous start.
in-VIGOR-ate®
is specifically formulated to encourage water intake. Key nutritional components –
- Acidification to enhance water palatability.
- Acidification to promote desirable microflora development in the gut.
- Electrolytes that promote hydration.
- Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium longum to “inoculate” the gut.
- Vitamins to support immune function and energy metabolism.
in-VIGOR-ate®
Is recommended for use during the first two weeks post-placement in the brooder house to prevent early chick mortality. It has been consistently reported to promote chick vigor and livability.