Foamy Eye Discharge

[Ulsta Dyook Wife]

Hi there,

My drakes have started fighting and 2 of them have a foamy discharge coming from one of their eyes. I'm assuming an eye infection. Does anyone know the best way to treat this? I have an antibiotic ointment before for duck eyes when a cat attacked them, however this does not look the same - was more a googy eye then just frothy eyes.

 

[chrismahon]

Don't know if this helps UDW, but foamy eyes is a symptom of Micoplasma in chickens. An infection that gets them when in low health and we have had it manifest in just one eye. I have also seen it when there has been a foreign body under the eyelid (which the vet removed). Also when very windy, perhaps chill or dust. So it could just be irritation from minor injury as you say. Not at the treatment stage yet. But if the eye starts to close and the lids swell then I would say you have a vet problem.

 

[Ulsta Dyook Wife]

Thanks for that. Yes its possible that it is dirt under their eyelids since they have been fighting. I think I'll try washing their eyes with salty water. It doesn't seem to be making them ill in anyway - still fighting! I've found homes for a couple of them so hopefully it will even out the drake:duck ratio a bit.

Cheers

 

[dorsetduckowner]

Good work finding homes for them
make sure they have fresh clean water to dip their heads in regularly and if it doesn't clear up in a few days get some eye ointment from the vets
Keep up posted?
Foamy eye is quite common in ducks
zo
x

 

[Ulsta Dyook Wife]

Thanks for that.

These are free range ducks - they roam for miles and have access to still and running fresh water and to the sea, so hopefully it will just clear up soon. I washed their eyes tonight with salty water so will see how they are doing tomorrow. I've taken the 2 out that are going to a new home, and there was no fighting in the run at dusk so here's hoping. Will keep you posted

 

[Ulsta Dyook Wife]

Pleased to report that my drakes eyes have improved a lot. It became clear that the foamy discharge was to do with damaged tissue around their eyes, and there was no infection. I've been washing the area on their faces with salty water all week and they are looking a lot better this morning. The swelling has come down and scabs have formed, so once they come off then all should be good. Thanks for the tips.