My Buff Duck was Paralized UPDATE: SHE'S BETTER

[DrakeMaiden]

She could be in shock, if something tried to snatch her.

Can she move her legs at all or are they completely paralyzed?

 

[DuckLady]

Please answer the questions here
https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=3569

Thanks. We do really want to help you but we need more info.

 

[cockadoodlemom]

terrielacy i dont know what else to tell you im trying to do this with her in my lap i have call all the vets in my area and hour trip and no one sees ducks or knows anything

 

[cockadoodlemom]

drakemaiden, she does move them a little and its like her neck is really shaky then she controls it. she eats chicken scratch and some allstock. thats all i know and i thank you for all the help

 

[cockadoodlemom]

it sounds like botulism but they dont tell me what to do

 

[DrakeMaiden]

If she's drinking water she's doing ok.

Make sure she is only getting really fresh food. I'm not sure what else you can do.

 

[DrakeMaiden]

Botulism
Symptoms: Loss of muscular control of legs, wings and neck, sometimes called limberneck. Birds are unable to swallow.
Cause: Toxins produced by Clostridia bacteria in decaying animal and vegetable waste. Avoid problems by keeping ducks out of muddy/dirty areas, and stagnant water, especially in hot weather. Bacteria multiply rapidly in warmer temperatures with anaerobic conditions (no oxygen).
Treatment: Give affected birds fresh drinking water. If necessary, introduce water into the mouth and throat. A crop tube could be used with the advice of a vet. Add Epsom salts (magnesium sulphate) to the water. Recommended amounts vary from 1 tablespoon in one cup of water to 1 ounce per 50 fluid oz (2½ pints) of water.

I'd try Epsom salts. Keep in mind that ducks drink a lot of water, so maybe go a little more dilute than what is recommended and if she is drinking more, dilute further.

 

[DrakeMaiden]

Also keep an eye on your other ducks. Whatever she got into might attract the other ducks too.

GOOD LUCK!

 

[DrakeMaiden]

Nevermind what I said about dilution . . . this was from a duck health website , so it is intended for ducks.

 

[cockadoodlemom]

she just pooed nothing but stinky water. you think i should still give her epsom salt? I am so upset and thank you for your help here are some pictures