Ducks attacked by rats - how to clean the wound? (Warning, picture)

[thewhimsicalflock]

I think your duck has a chance!
You’ve gotten some good advice the only other thing I can think of is getting some antibiotic for your duck. You could ask your vet if they’re willing to prescribe some

They seem to be doing better!

 

[Luv Ducks]

I was cleaning out the coop this morning and noticed one of my ducks sitting in the corner (the rest were all outside). I picked her up and the skin on her back and all of her feathers was gone. Her sibling (another buff) had the same. Picture is below, warning to those who are squeamish.

My husband and I could NOT figure out what happened, but our neighbor suggested rats. We have been fighting them lately and as soon as she mentioned that, it made sense. We weren't sure if we should cull them or try to help them heal and she and another neighbor suggested Vetericyn for a couple of days followed by Blu Kote. My question is how do I clean the wounds before applying the medicine? She suggested an epsom salt bath but I don't want to cause more pain. What do I do?

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How are your ducks doing now???? I pray that they made it alright. I thought the initial wound was deeper than just the feathers missing. The picture is deceiving.

 

[thewhimsicalflock]

How are your ducks doing now???? I pray that they made it alright. I thought the initial wound was deeper than just the feathers missing. The picture is deceiving.

They're still here. They're on the porch in a dry pool. It is definitely more than just feathers missing? The entire top layer of skin is gone. One of them is missing skin under her feathers. You can see the transition from muscle or fat to skin in the photo?

 

[Luv Ducks]

They're still here. They're on the porch in a dry pool. It is definitely more than just feathers missing? The entire top layer of skin is gone. One of them is missing skin under her feathers. You can see the transition from muscle or fat to skin in the photo?

That's what I thought I was looking at. I am surprised they can make it with that much damage done to them. I am so happy that they are still alive and seem to be doing well. I am glad that you shared this in case someone else has a situation like this and they know there is hope at least.

 

[thewhimsicalflock]

That's what I thought I was looking at. I am surprised they can make it with that much damage done to them. I am so happy that they are still alive and seem to be doing well. I am glad that you shared this in case someone else has a situation like this and they know there is hope at least.

Yes, I really struggled with looking at it when it first happened. I honestly was planning to cull, my husband convinced me to give them a chance. They're honestly doing great. The wounds are extensive but they're active, eating, drinking, quacking, etc. I've been really vigilant with putting their meds on several times a day.