Can ducks be housetrained

A. Cherrys is presumably thinking of getting a rather unconventional pet and wants to know how messy it will be. Thanks to rekstout and incitatus for their advice.

Here The AnswerBank looks into the pros and cons of taking on a duck as the family pet.

Q. Well, can you housetrain ducks

A. Since we found quite a lot of advice on which nappies were the best, things don't look too good for Cherrys. It seems that expecting your feathered friend to become potty trained might be asking too much.

The general advice is, in order to be successful, start using the nappies from as early an age as possible.

Q. A duck is for life, not just for Easter

A. Predictably it seems most people think that getting a duckling for the family pet is especially a good idea around Easter. However, because they haven't done their research and so don't realise just what's involved they soon become disillusioned with their new pet.

To get an idea of just what's involved, read on. If you then do decide that a duck is for you then why not consider adopting an abandoned Easter duck

Q. Are ducks very unusual pets

A. Well, they're certainly more unconventional than dogs or cats but ducks are very social animals and have been kept by humans, usually on farms, for centuries.

Bear this in mind when thinking about getting a duck. Because they're so sociable, they like to have company, ideally another duck. A solitary pet duck will need and demand a lot of your attention.

Q. How long can ducks live for

A. Quite a long time, at least as long as other more conventional pets, around 10 to 15 years.

Q. Where should I keep my duck

A. If you have a duckling, with downy feathers, then keep it indoors until its adult feathers grow. An adult duck should be ok outside; this is also desirable due to the lack of house training potential. Always keep your duck safe and secure in a generously sized enclosure, with a snug hideout lined with fresh hay.

Q. Does it need to swim

A. Yes. If you get a new born duckling, let it swim around in your bath for around 20 minutes a day, keeping an eye on it at all times, ducklings can get tired and drown.

For your adult, outside duck, then a children's paddling pool will suffice. Make sure that your provide a ramp too for easy access. You'll need to change the water at least every few days.

Q. What should I feed my duck

A. Despite what you might think, ducks need more than just bread. They need a balanced diet. They like to eat grass, the plants in your garden as well as insects, so avoid using pesticides where your duck has access.

Thinking of getting a pet Ask The AnswerBank about its characteristics and needs to help you make a decision.

by Lisa Cardy