Help! Ducklings foaming from beak and nostrils

[snoozebutton]

Just gave our ducklings a bath. 2 were foaming at beak and nostrils when we took them out. One looked like it was panting slowly. Foaming was clear. Looked like they ingested soap but I know that is not possible. Placed them in brooder and they drank. Seem better now but totally freaked out. Should I be worried?

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

You shouldn't use soap, and you shouldn't actually get ducklings wet until about 8 weeks, if they are raised by a hen duck they get some oil from her to be waterproof and can go swimming, otherwise human brooded ducklings don't have that advantage and you could chill them.

 

[snoozebutton]

Thank you for responding. I did not use soap. I have read on several forums and websites that you can let ducklings swim if you keep it brief, watch them closely, and ensure they are properly dried after. Based on your reply I will be more cautious.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

I would give them a shallow dish of warm water to play in at that age. They will learn how not to get it up their noses.