A sickly duck :(

[Megan Amber]

So the duck that I hatched a few months back is all grown up and so I had to move her into the big flock, well the transition didn't go to well, she is such a friendly duck, she was so afraid of the other ones and spent the last few days hiding in their duck house. I put clean water and food in there for her, and I thought she was eating it but now I don't. Today I had to take her back out and saw that her wings are all droopy, she has runny eyes, and she won't eat and she is sleeping a ton!! I really feel bad for making her sick and I wish I knew what I could do for her, any suggestion are very welcome and thanks!

 

[Amiga]

If she has been by herself, she may not realize she is the same kind of creature as they.

So, time to drop back and regroup. She needs to be made healthy again, first. Loads of fresh water, good food, vitamins . . . . what was her living arrangement before being put in with the flock? I would get her back to that for now, then plan a baby-steps program to get her in with the rest of them. It will take time, but I think it can work.

She may be traumatized. Give her some time and TLC. Some Veterycin spray if you can get it, for her eyes and nares. Otherwise, at least some ACV in a head washer. And some lukewarm bathtime.

 

[Megan Amber]

Ah I forgot about the ACV, Thanks!! She is back in her old cage, it's a nice sized wire and wood cage, and she can come out of it for daily grass time and play. She was the only one that hatched, hence being the only duck, she must think she is a human still, thanks for the advice, I'll get her some vitamins too. All she wants to do is sit on my lap so it probably is trauma.

 

[Amiga]

I am not a vet or a doctor, but I prescribe lots of snuggles, smiles, lullabies, and treats.

And a baby-stepping plan to help her join the flock as much as she will be able to. It's going to be an uphill hike. She really needs you.

 

[ducksinarow]

Could you when she is well put another duck in her cage with her. That way she would be on her own turf. She could buddy up with a single duck rather than hide from a whole flock. I don't know if this would work or not, just guessing.

 

[Megan Amber]

Could you when she is well put another duck in her cage with her. That way she would be on her own turf. She could buddy up with a single duck rather than hide from a whole flock. I don't know if this would work or not, just guessing.

That is a good idea, I think I will do that. I have another one that I singly hand raised, she was another only hatcher, maybe I will see if they get along.

 

[Megan Amber]

Well she is a little better today, I gave her the ACV and she actually ate some today so Yay for that! She slept a lot today but I imagine she must be tired!

 

[Amiga]

Yes, she needs some rest.