wet feather

[shannonkcarlson]

My duck was injured when she was young and has never developed a working preen gland. She has no waterproofing at all and suffers from wet feather if she swims. She is over a year old now and lays eggs when not molting. She’s been through multiple molts and it never gets better. What can I do to make her quality of life better as far as oiling her feathers or moisturizing her feathers. She’s not a huge swimmer either way but she does occasionally enjoy it and I’m worried that with this being her first winter with access to a pool she could get sick if she gets wet.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Everything I read says to wash them with dawn dish washing liquid and blow dry afterwards. I've never dealt with this, so I'm not sure if any other care is necessary. You may need to contact a vet and ask.

 

[Yardmom]

Im not sure if there is anything that will help if her oil gland truly doesn't work. If is a matter of just getting it to function encourage her to get wet and preen frequently.