Worming ducks? and nician questions

[anniele27]

We just got three 1 1/2 week old runners that will be eventually added to our currently 6 week old flock of 12 pekins/rouens. When doing research on runners it said we HAVE to worm them and that they MUST have nican.

So what is you alls opinion on worming ducks and is there any natural wormers I can use?

Also they are on unmedicated chick feed (regular grower feed for adults) but minus a slight feather problem in one adult (which quickly healed itself) they have not had any problems so do I really need nician? If so do I need to get the actual vitamin or is there something nician enriched I can feed them?

(If I've missed a forum with similar questions feel free to link it)


Thank you!!!

 

[anniele27]

*hopes this picture of my duckling will entice someone to reply*

 

[Amiga]

You are wonderful! I have had an interesting day, and I apologize for not responding sooner.

Okay, I don't want to bust on anyone, but I have not had to worm my ducks and they are over four years old. So not to confuse or worry you, but if there is no reason to believe they have worms, I would not worm them. And yes, I have consulted with two veterinarians who have no issue with my approach.

As for niacin, I am seeing a good number of cases of leg and neurological problems in ducklings that are fed chick starter.

To be on the safe side I would add a tablespoon of brewer's yeast (not baking yeast) to their food once a day. It has niacin and other B vitamins as well.

 

[anniele27]

You are wonderful!  I have had an interesting day, and I apologize for not responding sooner. 

Okay,  I don't want to bust on anyone, but I have not had to worm my ducks and they are over four years old.  So not to confuse or worry you, but if there is no reason to believe they have worms, I would not worm them.  And yes, I have consulted with two veterinarians who have no issue with my approach.

As for niacin, I am seeing a good number  of cases of leg and neurological problems in ducklings that are fed chick starter.

To be on the safe side I would add a tablespoon of brewer's yeast (not baking yeast) to their food once a day.  It has niacin and other B vitamins as well.

Thank you so much for the advice! I'm not seeing any signs of worms in any of the ducks so I won't worm them (probably easier for everyone anyways). I didn't even know brewers yeast had niacin in it so I will definitely go get that for the babies! Should I give it to the big ducks too? Thanks again for all the help you've provided me!

 

[Amiga]

It is more important for the babies, as it has a key role in the development of their nervous systems. My runners get outside so much, and eat so many worms and bugs that have niacin in their bodies, it is not a worry.

 

[anniele27]

It is more important for the babies, as it has a key role in the development of their nervous systems.  My runners get outside so much, and eat so many worms and bugs that have niacin in their bodies, it is not a worry.

My 6 weekers free range in the yard a lot so I'll take your advice and just give it to the ducklings! Thanks!!