Duckling and Niacin

[permvacation97]

Raising ducklings is an entirely new area for me. We bought our four ducklings a little more than a month ago. After a couple weeks we noticed one had leg issues and thought it might have been injured. After asking the place we bought them questions and they told me to put a brace/spint on his legs; with him not getting better. I researched Pinterest and finally found out what's wrong with this duck. I've been giving it vitamin B complex with niacin drops and a multi vitamin with niacin 10 MG per dose for about 4~5 days now. Also, for support used cobane medical tape to secure his legs closer together and underneath him. That has helped him somewhat, although he does get up now (very little), he continues to sit there like before the medical tape was placed and will barely do anything. From what I've read its the nature of the beast with niacin deficiencies. I really want this little guy to pull through! Can anyone tell me if there's anything else that needs to be done? Is there any chance of recovery? How long does it usually take until the duck shows signs of getting better? I don't want my poor little duck to suffer unnecessarily! Can anyone help please??

 

[Ratchnick]

Were you feeding chick feed?

 

[Jpat]

This article is a great read and focuses on niacin deficiency
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/niacin-deficiency-in-waterfowl.1367557/

@Ratchnick has a good question there. A quality feed being fed 24/7 is important

 

[Conan]

It sounds like you're on the right track. Have you tried swim therapy? It really does wonders with strengthening the legs for waterfowl.

 

[permvacation97]

This article is a great read and focuses on niacin deficiency
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/niacin-deficiency-in-waterfowl.1367557/

@Ratchnick has a good question there. A quality feed being fed 24/7 is important

Were you feeding chick feed
Yes, medicated for chicks.

 

[Isaac 0]

Two problems with feeding medicated chick starter to ducklings. One, it does not contain enough niacin for ducks which will lead to problems like the one your seeing. The other problem is that medicated feed contains amprolium which will decrease proper thiamine (B1) absorption which can lead to ataxia, wryneck, balance issues, and much more. Could you give us a picture or link of the vitamin supplements you are currently giving them?