What Do Pet Ducks Need?

If you're thinking about getting a pet duck, there are a few things you'll need to make sure you have in order to provide your new friend with a happy and healthy home.

Housing

Coop: Ducks need a coop to sleep in and protect them from the elements. The coop should be large enough for the ducks to move around comfortably, but not too large that it's difficult to keep clean.

Run: Ducks also need a run, or outdoor area, where they can roam and explore. The run should be at least twice the size of the coop and should be securely fenced.

Substrate: The floor of the coop and run should be covered with a substrate that is absorbent and easy to clean. Common substrates include straw, wood shavings, and pine needles.

Food and Water

Diet: Ducks are omnivores and can eat a variety of foods, including duck pellets, cracked corn, fruits, vegetables, and insects. Ducks should always have access to clean, fresh water.

Feeders: Ducks should have their own feeders and waterers. The feeders should be large enough to hold enough food for the ducks to eat in one day, and the waterers should be large enough to hold enough water for the ducks to drink in one day. Both feeders and waterers should be cleaned daily.

Bedding

Roosting bars: Ducks need a place to roost, or sleep, off the ground. Roosting bars should be placed at a height that is comfortable for the ducks to reach, and they should be wide enough for the ducks to stand on comfortably.

Bedding: Ducks need bedding to keep them warm and comfortable. Common bedding materials include straw, wood shavings, and pine needles. The bedding should be changed regularly to prevent it from becoming wet and dirty.

Grooming

Bathing: Ducks need to bathe regularly to keep their feathers clean and healthy. You can bathe your ducks in a sink, bathtub, or kiddie pool filled with lukewarm water. Add a small amount of mild soap to the water and use a soft cloth to wash the duck's feathers. Rinse the duck thoroughly with clean water and towel dry.

Trimming: Ducks' nails and beaks will need to be trimmed regularly. You can do this yourself using a pair of nail clippers or a Dremel tool. Be careful not to cut the nails or beak too short, as this can cause pain and bleeding.

Health Care

Vaccinations: Ducks should be vaccinated against common diseases such as duck plague, duck hepatitis, and fowl cholera. Vaccinations should be given by a veterinarian.

Parasite Prevention: Ducks can be infected with a variety of parasites, including mites, lice, and worms. You can prevent these infections by using a monthly parasite prevention product.

Regular Checkups: Ducks should be taken to the veterinarian for regular checkups. The veterinarian will check the duck's overall health and make sure that it is up-to-date on its vaccinations and parasite prevention.