Library
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Poxviruses can infect many species of birds, and each species of bird may have its own unique species of poxvirus. This handout explains three forms of the virus: cutaneous, diphtheroid, and septicaemic. Each of these forms has distinct clinical signs. Diagnosis, treatment, and ways to minimize the risk of infection in your bird are explained.
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Praziquantel is given on and off label and by mouth or injection to treat various internal parasites in cats, dogs, small mammals, birds, reptiles, and large animals. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it, in puppies less than 3 weeks old, or kittens less than 6 weeks old.
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A telemedicine visit is typically conducted over telephone, text messaging, chat, email, or videoconference. This may allow a veterinarian to diagnose and treat your pet’s medical condition remotely, without the need for an in-person visit. Your appointment will be conducted by a licensed veterinarian.
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Preparing your pet for a blood test helps to ensure that the results are as accurate and reliable as possible. Preparation for routine and special blood tests is slightly different. Your veterinarian will give you specific instructions before your appointment. It is important that you follow these instructions exactly to ensure accurate test results.
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Proventricular dilatation disease (PDD) is a very serious and often deadly disease affecting a wide variety of parrot species. Symptoms often involve one of the following conditions; vomiting, weight loss, passing undigested seeds in the stool or show neurologic signs. Avian Bornavirus infection has been linked in some cases to PDD.
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Psittacine beak and feather disease (PBFD) is a serious condition in parrot species for which there is no cure. The highly contagious virus attacks fast-growing epithelial cells, commonly causing visibly abnormal formations of the beak and/or feather follicles. The clinical signs vary depending on the species of bird and the age at which it was infected. Diagnostic testing is available and precautions must be taken when purchasing a new bird.
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Quaker parrots are small- to medium-sized birds. They are green with a grey chest and neck. They make great pets if hand-tamed. Quaker parrots can be excellent talkers and tend to bond closely to one or two household members.
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In the wild, a bird will try to uphold a strong appearance when sick. By the time a pet bird begins to display symptoms of illness, it has likely been sick for several days to weeks. Many things contribute to ill health. This handout provides bird owners with a list of signs that will alert them that their bird is sick.
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Respiratory disease is common in birds and can be caused by infection with bacteria, fungus, or parasites; by exposure to aerosolized toxins or environmental irritants; or by pressure on the respiratory tract from enlarged organs or tumors. Birds can have varying signs, such as coughing, sneezing, ocular or nasal discharge, or difficulty breathing. Any bird showing respiratory tract signs should be examined and tested by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Over-the-counter medications from pet stores are not recommended for treating sick birds.
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Ronidazole is given by mouth and is used off label to treat Tritrichomonas foetus, trichomonas, and giardia in dogs, cats, and birds. It should not be used in farmed animals. Common side effects include vomiting and decreased appetite. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or other nitroimidazoles such as metronidazole. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.