Special Needs - Missing Oil Gland

[KHiggz]

I have a year and a half old special needs Muscovy with a non functional leg (and the other only half functional). I’m not sure what happened but I took her in at the time of injury about 7 months ago and she’s very spunky and has an amazing will to survive - so I dedicate a lot of time to making her comfortable and helping her to enjoy life as a duck to the best of my ability. After a recent indoor bath time I noticed her feathers dried in an odd way. Upon further examination I realized she doesn’t have - yes I said does not have - an oil gland!!! Ive been caring for and raising ducks for the last 5 years - 7 days a week - it’s my life! And I’ve never seen such a thing! I am fully committed to doing whatever she needs to make her as happy, healthy and comfortable as possible - so looking for advice for what I can do. I’ve recently started giving her an omega 3 fatty acid supplement orally but I’m wondering if there’s something I can do topically to manually preen her? Perhaps some type of wax / oil mixture I can apply? Greatly appreciate any advice. Thank you friends!

 

[Canadian Wind]

I don't think coating her feathers with anything would be a good idea as she will ingest it. Just make sure she's dry if it's cold or drafty.

Muscovy have poorly developed oil glands compared to mallard-derived domestic ducks, so they tend to get wetter. I keep a close eye on mine during the winter for this reason.

 

[cheezenkwackers]

As mentioned, it probably isn’t necessary but, you could use duck fat. Maybe just a small amount where her oil gland should be. At least it wouldn’t hurt her if she ate it

 

[KHiggz]

I don't think coating her feathers with anything would be a good idea as she will ingest it. Just make sure she's dry if it's cold or drafty.

Muscovy have poorly developed oil glands compared to mallard-derived domestic ducks, so they tend to get wetter. I keep a close eye on mine during the winter for this reason.

Thank you so much!