Emergency - possible botulism, toxicity

[Pollo Blanco]

But, it can cause dehydration.

Wouldn't that be accompanied by excessive discharge from the vent?

 

[cheezenkwackers]

Wouldn't that be accompanied by excessive discharge from the vent?

Yes, but if she did the flush the morning before, then, it would have most likely happened that day. So, it would make sense that the ducks would be dehydrated and showing symptoms the next day. That was the day she did not see the duck pooping.

 

[Miss Lydia]

@That crazy duck lady how are the ducks doing today?

 

[Pollo Blanco]

Yes, but if she did the flush the morning before, then, it would have most likely happened that day. So, it would make sense that the ducks would be dehydrated and showing symptoms the next day. That was the day she did not see the duck pooping.

So she would have seen excessive discharge that afternoon.

Not sure about ducks, but when I eat salt, I get thirsty.

So, I am still trying to get my head around this so called Epsom salt toxicity, and how it mimics Botulism poisoning.

 

[That crazy duck lady]

@That crazy duck lady how are the ducks doing today?

Hi Lydia, the other two are completely fine and Daisy made it through the night. Her symptoms have not improved, but she has not worsened. She is drinking water better and more willingly, but has not eaten as far as I have seen.

I usually use poultry cell or a general electrolyte mix to add to their water which typically perks up any birds fast, just not this time. I have niacin capsules and know how to tube feed if needed. My livestock vet basically said to continue on as I am doing, I can’t get in until the end of this week. Fingers crossed all goes well! I had a similar incident last year, before I knew about botulism/toxicity symptoms, I treated with vitamins and my vet had me use antibiotics until i could get in. She was fine 3 days later. Oddly, these two incidents are not the first time i have seen/heard of cases like these with welsh harlequins and silver appleyards. Just an odd coincidence. I don’t want to use antibiotics with her, and I am hesitant on a flush as it’s been over 24 hours unless you think she could still benefit from one.

I thank you for all of your time and advice. If you have any additional input, I greatly appreciate it

 

[Pollo Blanco]

She is drinking water better and more willingly, but has not eaten as far as I have seen.

Have you offered her any grit?

 

[Miss Lydia]

Okay so your vet doesn’t think you should tube feed? How long has she gone without eating?
Glad to hear she is drinking more.

 

[That crazy duck lady]

Okay so your vet doesn’t think you should tube feed? How long has she gone without eating?

I’m sorry, I was unclear. My vet does suggest tube feeding if she doesn’t eat on her own today. She has not had food (that I know of) in 36 hours. It’s hard to know for sure because I work a full day. Fortunately, I share the property with my families business, so I have been able to sneak limited visits with her. I was thinking of waiting until this evening to tube feed if she hasn’t eaten and starting her on an egg or some softened duckling starter. She has been “perky” despite her symptoms

 

[Miss Lydia]

Hopefully tube feeding will help. I almost lost one of my Runners she was sick and tube feeding and Baytril saved her life I have no doubt. Let us know how she does once you get some food into her.

 

[That crazy duck lady]

Hopefully tube feeding will help. I almost lost one of my Runners she was sick and tube feeding and Baytril saved her life I have no doubt. Let us know how she does once you get some food into her.

Of course, I will keep you updated! All i have right now is doxycycline, do you know if baytril is sold in stores anywhere? I’ve been meaning to get some before this because some of my ducks had a “cough”. It’s hard to really find anything over the counter where I am located