Bacetial and fungal infections seem to be the most common health issue with birds, followed closely by parasites (like Giardia), mites (like Scaley Mites), and Liver Disease.

I have had a few bacterial infections in my aviary, though when they are caught right away, can be cleared up quickly with an antibiotic like Baytril. Most infections require an injection to start the healing process, followed by oral doses twice a day for at least 14 days. Anything less than 14 days may not clear up a bacterial infection.

Giardia can be hard to diagnose, even after multiple fecal smears done by a qualified avian vet. Some vets will prescribe medications for Giardia even if it has not been fully diagnosed. Taking this medication (usually Flagyl) is ok even if Giardia has not been diagnosed, but if the symptoms continue, another route should be taken. No medication should be continually used if there is no significant improvement in the symptoms it should be improving.

Mites can show themselves in symptoms including excessive itching, feather loss (not always plucking for shredding feathers), holes in the beak/nare areas, dry and flakey skin, and scaley looking feet. Mites are easily treated by an avian vet (though be sure to bring your infected bird to a certified avian vet- Birds have very sensitive systems that strong medications can hurt more than help).

Liver Disease usually shows by excessive growth of the beak and nails, poor feather condition, and unexplained yellow feathers (not to be confused with damaged feather follicles, poor diet, or age spots). A qualified avian vet can do tests to determine if your bird has Liver Disease and a treatment plan can be made up. Usually a plan includes cutting fatty seeds from your birds diet and increasing the amount of fresh and cooked low-fat foods.

BareFoot Aviary AKA Briana
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