| General Health Concerns Listed below is important information concerning the health of domestic/wild ducks. Wing clipping is not necessary for most domestic breeds. All but two that we know of do not fly, they have been bred in captivity for many years and are too heavy to fly. Clipping feathers improperly may cause bleeding, infection and death. If you feel wing clipping is necessary, have a qualified veterinarian do this.
• Wing injuries happen when fencing has sharp wires sticking out or due to a variety of preventable causes. Use common sense and give them plenty of room to move. A condition commonly called "Angel Wing" or "slipped Wing" happens when the primary feathers grow in abnormally due to feeding protein levels beyond the recommended amount. Decrease protein levels and in time the wings will return to normal.
• Molting occurs about every six months or so. Generally in the Spring and Fall, but not as a rule. The ducks get "scruffy" looking and you'll notice alot more lost feathers in their habitat. As feathers regrow, wings can be especially tender. Avoid contact with the wing area during this time.
• Leg injuries occur most often when ducks are entering or exiting the water. Provide a ramp with good traction or wide, sturdy steps to get both in and out of water safely. Wire cages are also a common source of injury. Cover all exposed wire flooring. Bumble foot has symptoms of swelling, redness and possible infection. Get a vet's advise when symptoms first appear. Also, some illnesses such as Botulism, Pasteurella and poisoning can cause weakness and appear to be a leg problem.
Ducks often raise one leg and sleep while standing. This is normal behavior. Injuries to toes and feet, limping or sores can be signs of a serious problem and should be treated by a qualified veterinarian.
• Poisoning can be prevented by making sure your duck is not exposed to pesticides, chemicals, lead-based paint, coins, screws, nails, lead shot, fishing weights, or any small objects that can be ingested.
Lead, zinc and copper are the most common toxic items found in ducks suffering from poisoning. The zinc in one penny is enough to kill a duck. There are treatments that a vet can administer that will counteract the poison when caught early. They include medicines given by injection and laxatives. A blood screen is the most common diagnostic tool used. Do not try "home remedies", seek expert help.
Beware of certain foods that can be toxic or cause painful conditions such as seeds, nuts, human "junk" food, chocolate, etc. If you are not sure about it, avoid it.
• Bare spots resembling mange on a female's neck or head, and around the eyes is often caused by rough mating. We've seen this condition in both wild and domestic ducks. There is a crust that forms on the female's head from the male's mucous that is secreted from the male's mouth during mating. If clean water is unavailable for regular bathing, you will need to rinse the head or in severe cases wash with "no more tears" baby shampoo to prevent eye infection and other problems.
Ducks prefer to mate on water, and some of the injuries and infection associated with rough mating can be minimized by providing clean swimming water.
• Beak spotting or discolorations should be discussed with your vet, we are not sure of the cause or treatment. Our vet is unsure of any health concerns connected with beak spotting. We suspect it is fungal, but no published treatment is available to our knowledge. "Warts" or bumps on the beak are generally caused by pecking or digging, but there can be other causes. In some cases, this results in a blister-like bump that needs to be drained and treated with antibacterial ointment. Digging, or rubbing the beak on sharp or hard surfaces can cause abrasions. Remove the hazard and consult a vet if bleeding is present.
• Respiratory problems, such as coughing, sneezing, wheezing and what appears to be choking or gagging, should be discussed with your vet ASAP. A rapid air temperature change of just a few degrees can cause pneumonia. Ducklings can develop colds or other problems when exposed to water or cool air too long - keep them warm and dry following swimming until they are mature. If your duck or duckling has "cold-like" symptoms, get to a vet for treatment right away.
There are several conditions that display coughing and wheezing symptoms, ranging from food being caught in the esophagus to life-threatening conditions that are often treatable, but only when caught early. Delaying treatment can mean the difference between life and death - and also save hundreds of dollars in vet bills.
• A Clean habitat, is critical to your duck's health and well-being. Sweep or hose droppings daily, keep swimming water, drinking water and food bins clean and pest-free. Supply clean, dry bedding daily for adults, twice daily for ducklings. Duck droppings make an excellent fertilizer for plants and vegetables.
Never use household cleaners or chemicals that can poison your duck. Avoid using pesticides around pond borders or anywhere your duck might roam. Keep all injurious or hazardous materials and their containers out of reach of your duck.
• Pay attention to your ducks. They need your love and attention, and will become depressed and lonely and can become ill when neglected. Some ducks like playing with stuffed animals, mirrors, balls and floating toys - and you'll find they enjoy the attention they get from you most. |
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