Will this be an ok plan?

[mtadkins5]

I will be getting my first ducklings and chicks next week and couldn't be more excited! I will be a first time duck and chicken owner!!! I have a couple of questions if you don't mind. Is it true that I can give both Purina® Start & Grow® SunFresh® Recipe Poultry ..Medicated from Tractor Supply? I know the ducklings need Niasin added. After I move them outside I plan on giving them Purina® Flock Raiser® SunFresh® Recipe till about 18 weeks and then give them Purina® Layena® SunFresh® Recipe, Pellet.I know used to you couldn't give medicated to the ducklings but my understanding you can now since the medication in it has changed. Also, do I need to worm them and if so how doo I do that? Lastly, do they need vaccines of any kind and if so what? I am trying to find a farm vet around here but that isn't easy

 

[4 MimisPeeps]

From everything that I have read, medicated chick starter is not safe for ducklings. I bought unmedicated chick started and Niacin capsules at the vitamin store & added to the water. I found they were splashing so much of the water out that I decided to switch to Brewers' Yeast. I also got it from the vitamin store and sprinkled it in the food. My ducklings are now 3 months & doing great.

 

[jdywntr]

You can start them on Flock Raiser. It is formulated for all ages in a mixed species flock. That way you aren't having to change them to a new feed.

Medicated feed is okay (at least in the US) for ducklings but they don't need the medication as coccidia is typically not a problem for ducklings unless they are kept in very poor conditions. Flock Raiser is not medicated so you will need to decide if you want to feed your chicks medicated or not at first. If you want your chicks to eat medicated, it won't harm the ducklings but most, including myself, feel if medication isn't needed, why give it?

Ducks are very hardy and run a higher body temp than chickens which helps them. Again, I feel that worming should only be done if needed and not just be given as a "just in case". I've wormed, once. But I had chickens that were symptomatic so I had a reason.

I don't believe that hatcheries offer vaccines for ducklings. I'd call the local cooperative extension in your county and ask them if coccidia is a problem in your area and if they recommend any vaccines for chicks/ducklings.

Good luck

 

[mtadkins5]

Thank you both!