Young chicks drink from nipple drinker systems fitted with catch cups (drip cups). Catch cups help chicks access water more easily, but they also increase the risk of wet litter, microbial growth, and subsequent health issues if not managed precisely.

Catch cups are used for young birds as a learning aid — chicks are attracted to the visible water in the cup, which accelerates the transition to nipple drinking.

They also compensate for the weak triggering force of day‑old chicks, which often cannot activate high‑pressure nipples; the cup ensures they still receive sufficient water.

In addition, they reduce early dehydration, which is particularly important in hot climates or following long transport times. Further information on drinker management can be found in the chapter “Drinking Water Management” in this book.