How to Prevent and Treat Prolapse in Laying Ducks
Prolapse is a common issue in the breeding of laying ducks, often occurring during peak laying periods. It is particularly prevalent in high-yield and newly laying ducks. So, how can we effectively prevent and treat prolapse in laying ducks? Let’s find out.
Symptoms of Prolapse in Laying Ducks
Symptoms of prolapse in laying ducks include moist feathers around the vent, with white or yellow mucus sometimes seeping from the vent. As the condition progresses, the oviduct and cloaca may protrude from the vent, extending about 3-4 centimeters. Over time, the exposed tissue changes from red to purple, becomes swollen, and may lead to dehydration, ulceration, and a foul odor. If not treated promptly, the protruding part may become necrotic, leading to pecking injuries from other ducks.
Prevention Measures
To prevent prolapse in laying ducks, consider the following measures:
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Proper Nutrition: Provide appropriate, balanced feed based on the different stages of growth and development.
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Appropriate Lighting: Gradually increase the lighting time from 17 to 19 weeks, reaching 16 to 17 hours by 22 weeks. Gradually increase both the duration and intensity of light.
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Optimal Management: Ensure proper feeding management during the peak laying period to prevent the ducks from becoming too fat, too thin, or starting to lay eggs too early.
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Quiet Environment: Provide a calm laying environment. Ducks are sensitive to external disturbances, and stress from a noisy environment can trigger prolapse.
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Vitamin Supplements: Regularly add vitamin supplements such as Vitamin A, Vitamin D3, and Vitamin E to their diet.
Treatment Measures
If prolapse occurs, take the following steps:
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Immediately isolate the affected ducks.
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Rinse the prolapsed area with 10% hypertonic warm (38°C) saline solution.
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Manually reposition the prolapsed tissues and administer 400,000 units of penicillin through the vent to prevent secondary infections.
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If prolapse recurs, administer 250 mg of oxytetracycline per duck per day, divided into two doses or mixed with feed, for a treatment course to achieve a cure.
Conclusion
In summary, prolapse, often referred to as "vent gleet," is a common issue in duck farming. Timely prevention and treatment are crucial to avoid significant impacts on egg production and prevent economic losses in the duck farm.
