DOCs only have a little over half the nutritive value of an equal weight of older chickens or other foods. A diet of only DOCs for years can lead to disease and even heart attacks. Deficient in Calciumĭay old chicks are super convenient, but are deficient in calcium and other nutrients needed to keep a growing reptile healthy. Keepers who are concerned about fat content can go to the trouble of removing the yolk sac from frozen and thawed chicks, but obviously this step cannot be taken when feeding live chicks. Without a doubt, however, DOC are superior to rodents when it comes to high protein content. But very young, growing pets will need more calcium than chicks alone can offer. Adult reptiles with reduced protein and calcium needs will thrive on a diet of DOC that is occasionally supplemented with another type of prey. It is hard to match the affordability and convenience of day old chicks, but there are some considerations to be aware of. Day-old chicks (DOC): Excellent Source of Protein This guide will describe the pros and cons of each of these food items. Many animal species can provide food for reptiles, but there are three that are most commonly used. Whenever possible a consideration of nutritional factors should be the keeper’s first consideration.

Some food items are easier to acquire and maintain than others, and there are differences in cost and convenience. There is little doubt that varying a carnivorous reptile pet’s diet pays dividends in overall health and longevity. Nutritional Comparison Guide: Day old chicks, Mice, Rats

Rodent pro smedium chickens