I got a 3 week old Alex 3 days ago. He's bright, alert and sooo cuddly, but I just can't elicit a feeding response from him. I assumed it was because of fear - he was pulled from the nest only a few hours before I brought him home - but he's not showing any signs of improvement. I always spend 10 minutes or so trying to coax him to eat, but he shows no interest and I end up having to crop feed him.
His weight gain is good on the crop feeds. I can't see any sign of a yeast infection. The heater is at one end of the brooder and he has the freedom to move to where he's comfortable. I always check the temp and consistency of the formula before offering it. I've tried spoon and syringe feeding without success. He will nibble at my fingers while we're having cuddles but it feels more like he's just being inquisitive than that he's looking for food.
Is this a common problem with Alex chicks? I've raised a few IRNs without any problems and expected the Alex to be much the same. Is he likely to change his mind and start eating at some point? Am I doomed to have to crop feed him until weaning?
Thanks
Lilibet
His weight gain is good on the crop feeds. I can't see any sign of a yeast infection. The heater is at one end of the brooder and he has the freedom to move to where he's comfortable. I always check the temp and consistency of the formula before offering it. I've tried spoon and syringe feeding without success. He will nibble at my fingers while we're having cuddles but it feels more like he's just being inquisitive than that he's looking for food.
Is this a common problem with Alex chicks? I've raised a few IRNs without any problems and expected the Alex to be much the same. Is he likely to change his mind and start eating at some point? Am I doomed to have to crop feed him until weaning?
Thanks
Lilibet