Chicken Feed Manitoba: What You Need to Know Before Bringing Chicks Home

Raising backyard chickens in Manitoba? Whether you're a seasoned poultry keeper or just getting started, choosing the right chicken feed is one of the most important steps in raising healthy, happy birds.

At Canvasback Pet Supplies, we proudly carry both Masterfeeds and ChatterBox — two trusted, high-quality options for your flock. ChatterBox feeds are non-genetically modified, giving you peace of mind about what your chickens are eating from day one.

If you're preparing to bring baby chicks home, it's not just about feed. You'll need a few key items to get started right. Here's a complete, easy-to-follow Baby Chick Starter Checklist to make sure you're ready for your new arrivals:

✅ Baby Chick Starter Checklist

🏡 Brooder Setup

• Brooder box or tote (safe, enclosed space)

• Heat source (heat lamp with red bulb or brooder plate)

• Thermometer (to monitor brooder temperature)

• Bedding (pine shavings, coop bedding, straw or paper towels for first few days – no cedar)

🍽️ Food & Water

• Chick feeder (small, low-tipping)

• Chick waterer (shallow, add marbles to prevent drowning)

• Chick starter feed (18–20% protein, small crumble)

• Electrolytes & Poultry Vitamins (optional, but good to have on hand)

🧼 Health & Hygiene

• Chick grit (only needed if feeding anything other than starter)

• First aid basics (optional, wound spray, stop-pick)

• Vaseline or petroleum jelly (for treating pasty butt)

• Gloves and hand sanitizer (for safe, clean handling)

Raising chicks is a rewarding experience, and getting off to a good start makes all the difference. With the right feed and supplies, you'll set your flock up for a healthy, happy life. Whether you're looking for trusted brands like Masterfeeds or non-GMO options like ChatterBox, Canvasback Pet Supplies is here to help. Stop by the store or give us a call—we're always happy to support fellow chicken keepers across Manitoba!