PLEASE HELP!! (Video) Dizzy, unbalanced, "drunk" duck. WHAT'S WRONG??

I would suspect toxicity, possibly botulism.

 

Good you brought him in.

 

He needs plenty of fresh water, and some close attention.

 

You might try the molasses laxative approach, to help him pass it more quickly out of his system.

 

If that seems to help him, I would follow up tomorrow with activated charcoal (you can get it at most pharmacies or pharmacy sections of large grocery stores).  I put three capsules in a half gallon of water.  It helps absorb toxins to keep them from leaving the digestive tract.

 

I will look up the laxative recipe and be right back.

 

 

From Storey's:

 

either 1 pint of molasses or 1 pound of Epsom salts per 5 gallons of water.  Birds that cannot drink on their own should be treated individually.  The addition of 1 part potassium to 3,000 parts drinking water or individual doses of 1 teaspoon castor oil have also been recommended as treatments.  In birds that are particularly valuable, flush out the contents of the esophagus with warm water by using a funnel and rubber tube inserted into the mouth and several inches down the esophagus.  To avoid further problems, every effort must be made to locate the source of botulism.  

 

end of quote

 

I would not be comfortable with the flush, because I have not done this and fear loading the duck's lungs with fluid.  But perhaps you are better with these things.

 

 

Sending this on with prayers,

 

 

Edited by Amiga - 4/16/12 at 10:40am

Im so sorry. It doesnt look good, hon. Based off of my unfortunate experience, it looks similar to intestinal impaction or metal poisoning. Keep a close eye on the fecal matter. If hes pooping normal, then there could be hope. Give him lots of love in the mean time. The vet would need to run an xray and take blood if you choose. Watch for a green color in the poop.?.. And for anything coming out that shouldnt be there. If its intestinal impaction, its important to get it taken care of before it enters the lower intestines.... But surgery is risky on these guys. Watch for liquid coming out of the beak as if hes drooling, too.

My avian vet prescribed a medicated alfalfa fiber suppliment for rodents to feed through a syringe, but it was too late for us.

I need to step away for a few.  If you think of more questions or ideas, please pm me . . . I will check messages as I am able.

 

I am so glad he's doing much better now. I too am so very grateful for this site. And the best thing is, there are no stupid questions.

Whew, bet that was so very scarey for you. Keep us updated on how he's doing.

 

Sweet.   Glad he is better.

What horrible vets!  I have a place that I take the ducks and they are so very nice. 

I am glad to read your duck is doing better.