Duck walking small steps, gait seems off

[CameronsMom814]

Hello: We had a mama Mallard hatch 5 precious baby duckings in our backyard. Since we're not near water close enough that they wouldn't have to cross a major road, we decided to let them live in our backyard until they can fly. I studied what to feed them, and they've thrived. They've taken over our pool, and we also have a kiddie pool for them. They are 5 weeks old today, and almost as big as mama! My question as the subject eludes: One of the babies is walking slower than normal, and small steps. We don't touch them and keep our distance, but just from observing I don't see any injuries. Unless I need to look at the bottoms of his or her feet. I'd have to grab him or her to do that, which I know would be distressful for all of them. Is eating, lays down more than the others but I realize some just lay down more than others. Lagging behind the rest. Swims just fine. Just wondering if anyone has any idea why walking this way? I'll have to try to get a video. I did wonder if perhaps the pool deck was hot and burned his feet. That happens to me. But it's been a few days now. Thank you!

 

[Miss Lydia]

The only way to know if the feet are burned is to look at them.
Or it could be a niacin deficiency what are you feeding them? and

 

[CameronsMom814]

The only way to know if the feet are burned is to look at them.
Or it could be a niacin deficiency what are you feeding them? and

Thank you for your reply. They are getting niacin as I sprinkle brewers yeast on their food once a day. When they were babies, I gave them chick starter. Now they're eating duck food pellets, freeze dried mealworms, and occasional minnows. They root around in our yard and catch worms and whatever out there too I guess. Yeah I may have to snatch him up and look at those feet. They will all freak out!

 

[Miss Lydia]

They probably will but if they are blistered they will need to be treated.

 

[CameronsMom814]

Got my son to help me attach a video I took. I hope this works. I think you can tell which duck I'm referring to. The one lagging in the back. And then I zoom in on her. I see I need to move that cord my husband left laying there.

 

[CameronsMom814]

They probably will but if they are blistered they will need to be treated.

I replied to your reply here, but not sure it stayed in the same thread. But I attached a video.

 

[Miss Lydia]

It looks very similar to a niacin deficiency can you get some Liquid B complex TSC carries one brand name Durvet liquid B complex it will say injectable but we use it orally. You can put it over something they really like but this little one needs it mainly so how would you make sure he was getting a full dose 1ml daily is what it needs. Separating this one would cause stress and he may not eat. Do you give them anything other than feed? It looked like it was hesitant to go and eat with everyone is that normal or just this time?

 

[CameronsMom814]

It looks very similar to a niacin deficiency can you get some Liquid B complex TSC carries one brand name Durvet liquid B complex it will say injectable but we use it orally. You can put it over something they really like but this little one needs it mainly so how would you make sure he was getting a full dose 1ml daily is what it needs. Separating this one would cause stress and he may not eat. Do you give them anything other than feed? It looked like it was hesitant to go and eat with everyone is that normal or just this time?

Thank you SO MUCH! I'm going to run out right now and get some. What I see online at my local TSC is a brand called "Rooster Booster" that is a liquid. Doesn't look to be an injectable. Will that work? If not, I'll call them and ask.

 

[CameronsMom814]

Thank you SO MUCH! I'm going to run out right now and get some. What I see online at my local TSC is a brand called "Rooster Booster" that is a liquid. Doesn't look to be an injectable. Will that work? If not, I'll call them and ask.

Never mind, I called and they have the Durvet! Heading to go get it now. I'll be back with how it goes with attempting to dose.

 

[Miss Lydia]

you want the Durvet liquid B complex.

Rooster Booter "Poultry Cell" is a great product too but for niacin deficiency, we have found the liquid B Complex to be the best for niacin def. 1ml daily until no symptoms then for a full week after.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/niacin-deficiency-in-waterfowl.1367557/

https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/nutritional-yeast-vs-brewers-yeast.1393856/