Temperature fluctuations making runner cough?

[Jenthecanadian]

So, I’m probably being paranoid, but one of my runners sounds like he’s been coughing. I only heard it a few times, but as I was putting them to bed tonight I heard it again. There has been a bit temperature drop today, and I’m wondering if it’s related to that. The other ducks seem ok. What are some things I should look out for?

 

[Ratchnick]

I don't think its the temperature. Sounds like a respritory infection. It could spread to all your ducks. I would isolate her for sure.

 

[Jenthecanadian]

Thank you! This morning he hasn’t been coughing, so I’m hoping I was just in paranoid mode and he just had something in his throat..

 

[Isaac 0]

Coughing in waterfowl is most often associated with inhalation of material into the airways, resulting in irritation. Powdery feed, dusty bedding, high ammonia, and environmental pollutants can encourage the onset of these problems from developing. Fortunately, respiratory diseases, and infections arent something we see very common with ducks, unlike chickens. If he has shown improvement, you can assume the former condition mentioned as the culprit.

 

[Jenthecanadian]

Thank you Isaac - that is super helpful! I haven't heard one cough today, so my fingers are crossed that it was just a mild irritant.