First post in the sick bay. Our first time raising ducks and they are all beautiful. Unfortunately, one has become ill. Pigeons-toe foot, bowed leg and difficulty walking. Our young boy has it all. With a little research, we found some supplements to help. From what I gather this stuff came recommended by a vet tech. We will be starting our ducks on this tomorrow. I will post results as we see them.
Health multiplier: (not affiliated)
Here is some more info on the problem:
A lack of niacin in ducks can lead to serious health issues, including weak legs, difficulty walking, and deformities like bowed legs or pigeon-toed feet. It's essential to ensure that ducks receive adequate niacin through their diet to prevent these deficiencies.
Importance of Niacin for Ducks
Niacin, also known as Vitamin B3, is essential for the health and development of ducks. It plays a critical role in bone growth and helps convert carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into energy. Ducks require a higher amount of niacin compared to chickens, making it vital to ensure they receive adequate levels in their diet.
Symptoms of Niacin Deficiency
A lack of niacin can lead to several health issues in ducks. Early signs include:
- Bowed legs
- Enlarged hock joints
- Pigeon-toed stance
If untreated, these symptoms can worsen, leading to severe weakness and inability to walk.
Sources of Niacin
To prevent deficiency, provide ducks with a diet rich in niacin.
Duck-specific feedFormulated to meet the niacin needs of ducksBrewers' yeastCan be sprinkled on feed for added niacinFresh fishA natural source of niacinGreen peasAnother nutritious option for niacinNiacin supplementsAvailable in tablets or powders for easy addition
Recommended Daily Intake
- Ducklings: At least 70 mg of niacin per kg of feed
- Adult breeding ducks: 50 mg of niacin per kg of feed
Ensuring your ducks receive sufficient niacin is crucial for their overall health and well-being. Regularly check their diet and consider supplementation if necessary.
Let me know if anyone else has experienced this!