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Cantaloupe or rockmelon is a refreshing treat for many pets and they love munching on this healthy fruit. Whether ducks can eat it or not is a burning question that has been asked on many forums.
There are barely any negatives about this fruit, however, before introducing any new treat to these adorable feathered pets, it is always fruitful to research the benefits and risks of feeding it.
This short guide will put you on the right track as to whether you should feed cantaloupe or not and how much.
Can Ducks Eat Cantaloupe?
If the owner has an abundance of cantaloupe at his disposal, do not hesitate to share some with the ducks. It is full of vitamins and minerals that can benefit ducks in more than one way.
This refreshing treat is known for its high water content and is usually given to pets in summer. Simply include it into the meal plan of your ducks and other birds in a moderate amount.
Cantaloupe is an excellent source of Vitamin A and Potassium, therefore, ducks deficient in the said vitamins and minerals should be given this fruit from time to time.
Cantaloupe Seeds
Like pumpkin seeds, cantaloupe seeds are also edible. The cantaloupe rind should be avoided as it is too thick. These seeds can be eaten either raw or roasted.
However, it is better not to feed too many roasted cantaloupe seeds. As the roasted seeds are prepared with oil and salt, it can hurt the duck when given in large amounts.
The high salt content can lead to the problem of thin-shelled or shell-less eggs. Simply chop the raw seeds into smaller pieces and serve them to the ducks.
Is Cantaloupe Toxic To The Ducks?
Cantaloupe is a safe and healthy treat that does not contain any poisonous substance harmful to the health and well-being of the duck.
No common toxic compounds like solanine, Thamamine, Lectin, and others are found in this fruit.
It is important to know the level of toxicity of the treat to determine the frequency with which you will feed it to ducks or not serve at all.
If ducks are familiar with the taste of watermelon, cucumber, and pineapple, introducing cantaloupe would not be a problem.
Start small, serve a small portion of the fruit to ducks and observe whether they like it or not. If the ducks like this new treat, add some more to the feeder.
Health Benefits of Feeding Cantaloupe To The Ducks
This powerhouse of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals has plenty to offer in terms of health benefits. Some of the health benefits of serving cantaloupe to the ducks include
Heart Health
Commercial ducks are not particularly prone to heart diseases unless they become overweight. Fiber assists in controlling blood pressure and reducing cholesterol levels. Cranberries for ducks are an alternative source.
Potassium counteracts the effects of sodium by lowering blood pressure. The high water content of the cantaloupe keeps the duck hydrated, so the heart does not have any problem pumping blood.
Digestive Health
A high-fiber diet is important for a healthy digestive system. It helps relieve constipation if the duck has consumed protein in a large quantity.
If the duck does not have enough water in the body, the large intestine absorbs water from food waste resulting in hard stools and constipation. Mushrooms for ducks is another alternative source.
Thankfully, because of high fiber and water content, this fruit keeps the digestive tracts healthy and unclogged.
Immune System
High in antioxidants, it improves the immune system that works by neutralizing free radicals. A healthy immune system means more resistance to diseases. Feed raisins to ducks as an alternative source.
Vitamin A & C
These two essential vitamins help against different conditions like arthritis, joint swelling, disability, and stiffness. Learn Can Ducks Eat Broccoli?
Risks of Feeding Cantaloupe
This treat can be quite addicting to ducks and if not given regularly, they become cranky. Therefore, serve a smaller portion of the fruit every once in a while.
Moreover, avoid giving moldy cantaloupe as it contains mycotoxins which often leads to the death of the duck.
A whole ripe cantaloupe lasts only 5 days at room temperature, to extend its shelf life, properly store it in the fridge.
Serving Cantaloupe to the Ducks
Rinse it well to get rid of any herbicides or pesticides applied to the fruit. Peel off the skin of the fruit, chop it into different pieces and put them in the duck feeder.
Mix the small pieces of cantaloupe in the regular meal or with other fruits. It will raise the appetite of the ducks and provide an ample supply of many essential nutrients.
Conclusion
Overall, it is a healthy treat with no ill effects. However, ducks can not survive alone on cantaloupe, despite all its health benefits, it should not replace the regular diet. Bear in mind that the treat should only accommodate 10% of the duck’s diet.
