Help, duck can’t get up and is panting

[JustADuckFarmer]

I went outside today and found my duck Peep on the ground not able to stand, for a little context we are having snow right now and it was obvious that one of our males had been mating with her. So I put her in her own little house with the heat lamp, because the temperature is around twenty five, and she drank some water and is alert. I went outside thirty minutes later, and now she is panting hard but at the same time she is chattering her beak like a human with their teeth. So I turned off the heat lamp to prevent overheating, she is still pretty alert, but not drinking. I guess what I’m asking is there anything else I should be doing, and what are y’alls thoughts on what could be happening. I think it may just be stress, but with the weather, and the possibility of Avian flu, I’m just really worried.

 

[FowlProtector]

Here are tips:
Keep Peep cozy but not too hot. Overheating can be a real bummer, so if she starts panting, you might need to turn off or adjust the heat lamp. Make sure her living space is draft-free but also well-ventilated to avoid stuffiness.

Keep offering water, even if she’s not drinking right now. Ducks need to stay hydrated, especially when they’re stressed. If she’s not drinking on her own, you can try gently offering her water with a syringe (without a needle). You can also try tempting her with her favorite foods, like mealworms, corn, or chopped greens to encourage her to eat.

Keep an eye out for other symptoms like nasal or eye discharge, or labored breathing, which could indicate illness like avian flu or respiratory problems. Also, check for any signs of injury, especially after mating, such as bruising or cuts around her back or sides.

Since stress might be a factor, keep her in a calm, quiet area away from the rest of the flock. Limit loud noises and disturbances, and make sure she’s not being harassed by other ducks or chickens. A peaceful environment will help reduce stress.

Since the temperatures are low, make sure she’s not too cold. You can check her feet or legs to see if they’re cold and cover her with a blanket or towel to help keep her warm, but don’t wrap it too tightly.

If Peep’s condition doesn’t improve in the next few hours or if you see worsening symptoms like lethargy or trouble breathing, you should consider taking her to the vet to rule out serious conditions like avian flu or respiratory infections.

Providing warmth, hydration, and a calm space should help if stress and cold are the causes. If things don’t improve, professional help is important to make sure she’s safe. Keep me posted on how she’s doing!

 

[FowlProtector]

I went outside today and found my duck Peep on the ground not able to stand, for a little context we are having snow right now and it was obvious that one of our males had been mating with her. So I put her in her own little house with the heat lamp, because the temperature is around twenty five, and she drank some water and is alert. I went outside thirty minutes later, and now she is panting hard but at the same time she is chattering her beak like a human with their teeth. So I turned off the heat lamp to prevent overheating, she is still pretty alert, but not drinking. I guess what I’m asking is there anything else I should be doing, and what are y’alls thoughts on what could be happening. I think it may just be stress, but with the weather, and the possibility of Avian flu, I’m just really worried.

Tag Jenbirdee she is the expert!