Unwell duckling, need help!

[iLikeDucksAndOtherStuff02]

HELP! I have a 10 day old duck who is looking quite unwell. I have encountered this before with my previous duckling, who died after about 5 or so hours, and symptoms include: at first, standing unsteadily - they often have to sit down; refusing to eat or drink; putting head down as if they can’t hold it up; and finally they die. It’s happening right now, although still in early stages. He’s still drinking some water but not eating. The food he eats is lettuce (shredded), some chick feed, and sometimes cheese. I fear he’s gotten too cold. He’s in a warm environment now but I need to know if I can stop his death (unlike with the previous duck) and how - quickly!

 

[Brooke_R]

HELP! I have a 10 day old duck who is looking quite unwell. I have encountered this before with my previous duckling, who died after about 5 or so hours, and symptoms include: at first, standing unsteadily - they often have to sit down; refusing to eat or drink; putting head down as if they can’t hold it up; and finally they die. It’s happening right now, although still in early stages. He’s still drinking some water but not eating. The food he eats is lettuce (shredded), some chick feed, and sometimes cheese. I fear he’s gotten too cold. He’s in a warm environment now but I need to know if I can stop his death (unlike with the previous duck) and how - quickly!

I got a sick duckling that acted like that and I just kept them warm and gave them electrolytes (and niacin with their food). Soon, he was much better. I don’t know if it will fix your problem, but these things always help

 

[Miss Lydia]

Are you offering chick grit? always offer chick grit when feeding anything other than starter.
Has your duckling been outside where it may have eaten something toxic activated charcoal is really good for removing toxins just open a capsule and mix with their drinking water. Or Epsom salt or molasses
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/flushes-for-aiding-in-toxin-removal.700526/

 

[iLikeDucksAndOtherStuff02]

That’s what I’ve been doing. He’s not stung some now, hopefully he’s getting better.

 

[Miss Lydia]

That’s what I’ve been doing. He’s not stung some now, hopefully he’s getting better.

he got stung? By what?

 

[iLikeDucksAndOtherStuff02]

I don’t think he’s been intoxicated, as he has not eaten anything appart from what I’ve provided him. I haven’t given him any chick grit, though. I’ve bought it now. Thank you!

 

[iLikeDucksAndOtherStuff02]

Sorry, I meant he’s eating some now. I was typing with one hand while hand feeding him

 

[Miss Lydia]

They basically need a very balanced diet and the treats should not be more than 10% of their daily feed. Put the chick grit into a container close to the feed but not in it. they will use it as needed.

 

[iLikeDucksAndOtherStuff02]

Thank you!

 

[Miss Lydia]

Please keep us updated on how your duckling is doing