Caring for young fighting cocks from 6 months to 1 year old requires special attention to their nutrition, trimming, grooming, and training regimen. Below is a detailed JiliAce guide on how to raise and care for young cocks to help them develop comprehensively and prepare for future matches.
Introduction
Fighting cocks, also known as gamefowl, are a renowned breed celebrated for their exceptional strength, courage, and fierce combat abilities. These birds often possess firm muscles, strong legs, and sleek, vibrant feathers. One of their most striking features is their indomitable fighting spirit, making them relentless in battles. With sharp, alert eyes and quick reflexes, they embody the intelligence and instincts of a true warrior.

But the raising of fighting cocks to the farmers themselves is not strictly a hobby since it has essential practical implications: fighting cocks are images of bravery, which would reflect the valourous spirit of the Filipino culture.
During traditional festivals, impassioned fighting of cocks shows not only the people’s enthusiasm but also a way of strengthening relationships. Besides, raising fighting cocks earns a stable income for many families. If they win in major matches, the value increases, and their price is so high that sometimes it becomes a very profitable capital asset.
Besides, fighting cocks support traditional livelihoods in unique ways in rural areas of the Philippines. The rearing demands patience and thorough attention to detail, hence helping the farmers cultivate diligence and love for labor. In fact, fighting cocks are no less than animals but a kind of pride and a loyal companionship for farmers, representing one’s love for their homeland and cultural heritage.
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Prepare to Care for Young Fighting Cocks from 6 Months to 1 Year Old
Choosing the Right Fighting Cock Breed
Raising fighting cocks is not just a passion but an art deeply rooted in the traditions of many Filipino communities. Among the most popular gamefowl breeds, the following four stand out for their strength, exceptional fighting abilities, and high economic value:
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Rooster
Rooster This native Filipino breed is hailed as the “king” of cockfighting. Known for their powerful and precise strikes, Rooster can often defeats opponents in a short time. They feature a muscular build, robust legs, and an unyielding fighting spirit. For farmers, roosters are not only a source of pride but also a symbol of the Filipino martial tradition.
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American Gamefowl
American Gamefowl Originating from the United States, American gamefowl are famed for their lightning-fast strikes and incredible agility. Despite their smaller size compared to other breeds, their fighting capabilities are equally formidable. Notably, their internal organs are smaller than usual, reducing the risk of severe injuries during matches. This aggressive nature and superior performance have made American gamefowl increasingly popular among farmers.
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Peruvian Gamefowl
Peruvian Gamefowl These birds are known for their tall, sturdy frames and powerful strikes. Despite their heavier weight, Peruvian gamefowl are surprisingly agile, giving them an edge in battles. Their sharp spurs and beaks are lethal weapons, enabling them to finish opponents quickly. With their intense fighting nature, Peruvian gamefowl are highly sought after by seasoned breeders for crossbreeding to improve the quality of their stock.
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Asil Chickens
Asil Chickens Originating from India, Asil chickens stand out for their resilience and enduring fighting style. Distinctive features include broad shoulders, wings close to their body, a round head, and high cheekbones that protect their eyes from direct attacks. In battle, Asil chickens are known for their accurate and effective strikes, particularly in decisive counterattacks. Their strong fighting abilities and durability make them a favorite among breeders.
The above breeds not only bring joy to their owners but also play a vital role in fostering sustainable economic development. Depending on conditions and preferences, farmers can choose the most suitable breed to nurture and transform them into true “warriors” in the arena.
Identifying a Healthy and Potential Breeding Stock
To select a healthy and promising fighting cock, farmers should focus on key features such as bright, agile eyes and sturdy legs with smooth scales free of deformities. The bird’s feathers should be glossy and tightly hugging the body, indicating good health. High-quality stock often has a proud gait, broad chest, a small yet sturdy head, reflecting strong instincts and fighting capabilities.
When purchasing breeding stock, it’s important to source from reputable farms with clear information about the birds’ origins and care. Avoid the temptation of buying cheaper, unverified stock, as this can lead to risks like poor resistance or subpar quality.
Additionally, before making a purchase, thoroughly inspect each bird and inquire about its diet and vaccination history to ensure the breeding stock is disease-free. Investing in high-quality breeding stock from the beginning is a crucial foundation for raising a strong flock of fighting cocks ready for major matches.
How to Care for Young Fighting Cocks from 6 Months to 1 Year
Caring for young fighting cocks from 6 months to 1 year requires special attention, particularly in their diet, trimming combs and feathers, and training regimens. Below is a detailed guide to raising and nurturing young fighting roosters to help them develop comprehensively and prepare for future battles.
1. Nutrition Plan

As young fighting roosters reach 6 months of age, they require a specialized diet to develop muscle, feathers, and physical strength. Proper nutrition is crucial to forming a robust and formidable fighter.
Feeding Schedule for Young Fighting Roosters:
- Morning (8–9 AM): Feed them grains and cereals to provide energy for the day.
- Noon (12 PM): Offer high-protein fresh foods such as meat, fish, eel, eggs, and vegetables. This meal is critical for muscle and feather development.
- Afternoon (4 PM): Provide grains and cereals again.
- Evening (8 PM): Feed grains and cereals one last time, ensuring they have access to fresh drinking water before sleeping.
Feeding Tips:
- Avoid overfilling the feeding tray to prevent waste and discourage idle eating.
- Monitor and adjust the food quantity based on the needs of each rooster.
- Ensure the water supply is always clean and changed regularly.
2. Trimming Combs and Feathers

Trimming Combs:
Trimming the comb prevents injury during fights and requires precision and care:
- Preparation: Use a sharp razor or scissors. Before trimming, gently massage the comb to help the rooster acclimate to the sensation.
- Procedure: Carefully trim the outer layer of skin, avoiding excessive cuts that may cause heavy bleeding. Sterilize the tools and the area before trimming to prevent infection.
- Post-Care: Apply petroleum jelly to the trimmed area to soothe and speed healing. Allow at least one month of recovery before entering any matches.
Feather Trimming:
Trimming feathers keeps the rooster cool and enhances its appearance:
- Head and Neck Feathers: Trim feathers from the first vertebra downward, leaving the crest feathers intact.
- Underarm and Flank Feathers: Trim from the underarm to the tail to facilitate heat dissipation.
- Thigh Feathers: Trim around the thighs, keeping about 5 cm of feathers above the knees.
- Underbelly Feathers: Trim feathers from the rear thigh to the vent, but retain chest feathers to shield against scratches from opponents.
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3. Training Regimen
Wind Training:
This training builds stamina and striking ability:
- Method: Attach a leather muzzle to the rooster’s beak and let them circle and spar. This encourages air-strike movements and rapid successive kicks.
Leg Conditioning:
Strengthen the rooster’s legs through soaking:
- Method: Soak the legs daily in a solution (optionally mixed with urine or saltwater) for about 10 minutes to toughen the leg skin.
Morning Exercise:
Expose the rooster to the natural environment to enhance health:
- Method: Release the rooster into the yard early in the morning to stretch, flap its wings, and crow while absorbing morning dew.
Rubbing with Alcohol:
This toughens the skin and improves color:
- Method: Rub rice wine onto the rooster’s body while massaging in the morning and at noon. Afterward, sun the rooster briefly and bathe it in cold water.
Strengthening the Knees:
This training enhances stability during jumps:
- Method: Toss the rooster upward about 20–30 cm to encourage it to flap its wings and land steadily. This strengthens the thigh tendons and knee joints.
4. Using Supplements
Adding supplements to the rooster’s diet is essential for holistic growth:
- Benefits: Supplements promote rapid growth, enhance bone strength, and reinforce knee ligaments.
- Recommendation: Use verified supplements for optimal results.
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Conclusion
Caring for young fighting cocks from 6 months to 1 year demands patience and meticulous attention. By following the guidelines above, you’ll gain the experience and knowledge to nurture powerful, resilient roosters that are ready for competitive battles.