What signs should I look for if my duckling are having leg/feet issues

[binza1979]

My ducks are just over 2 weeks old and growing like weeds. When they were waddling around the bathroom after their bath tonight, I noticed that they would walk for a small bit, and then lay down to rest. They seemed to be struggling to hold their weight.

I need advice!

Thanks!

 

[DuckLover179]

Are you supplying Niacin? They need that to make their bones stronger, and support them as they grow.

 

[binza1979]

I am using chick starter that has niacin in it, but I haven't been supplementing. After their bath today, they weren't walking as good as they did a day or so ago. Could I wait until tomorrow to start supplementing, or should I made a run to the store to get them started tonight?

 

[DuckLover179]

They should be fine for tonight.

 

[The Duck ABC's]

Chick starter does not have enough niacin for ducks. It's plenty for chicken, but ducks do need lots more. So buy extra niacin in the store. Do not get the flush free version, because it has been altered and does not work for ducks. You need the basic from. Here is a product I like for my ducks. It has niacin, vitamins, electrolytes, minerals and probiotics. I would get the niacin from the store rather fast. They will deteriorate fast with out enough niacin. They can die, if they do not get enough. Again you are looking for Niacin or nicotinic acid. Do not get the flush free, sometimes called Inositol hexanicotinate, version. You will need to mix 100mg per 1 gallon of water.

 

[duckking]

Had the exact same issue with my Rouens. Niacin and the electrolyte solution cleared it right up and they were slap, slap, slapping around in no time.

 

[binza1979]

I'm heading out to get brewer's yeast today. What is the best way to supplement the ducklings with it? Do I just sprinkle it on their food?

Thanks!