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Heat Stroke in Parrots, Finches and other Birds – Symptoms and Treatment

findiviglio — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 15:36:27 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. In a recent article, I suggested some techniques that can be used to keep your birds cool and safe during hot weather (please see article below). Today I’d like to take a look at recognizing and dealing with heat stress and heat stoke.

Note: the attached photos depict some North American birds that are well-adapted to desert habitats – the Roadrunner, Gila Woodpecker and Elf Owl.

Dangerous Places and Temperatures

Wild birds and pets kept in large outdoor aviaries rarely experience heat-related problems, no matter how high temperatures climb (of course there are limits – don’t try keeping your pet penguin outdoors in Las Vegas!).

Small cages in direct sunlight present a real danger, but closed cars and unventilated rooms are the main places where pets suffer heat stroke. In NYC, I’ve recorded temperatures of 103-105 F in an attic apartment, and 155 F in a parked car. Temperatures can build to these levels very quickly, and can be fatal to birds in mere minutes.

Symptoms

As heat stress sets in, an afflicted bird will spread its wings out from the body and pump its throat in-and-out in a panting motion. Known as gular flapping, this behavior will cause heat to be lost to the air, and is the avian version of sweating (birds lack sweat glands). Treatment instituted at this point will usually prevent heat stroke.

As time goes on, a heat stressed parrot or other bird will adopt what can only be described as a “glassy-eyed stare”, and may be unresponsive to stimuli such as noise. It is now progressing from heat stress to heat stroke. The bird will rock back and forth and be unsteady on its feet. In the final stages, the victim will fall over and the body may go into convulsions. The actual “stroke” appears to be caused by clots that prevent blood from travelling through the vessels supplying the bird’s brain.

Treating Heat Stress

Quick action must be taken when a bird exhibits signs of heat stress or stroke. In cases of heat stress, fans and air conditioners should be employed when possible…a quick change in air temperature will not severely stress the bird. Provide a bath as well, perhaps standing the bird in it to encourage its use. Gatoraide can be added to the bath and/or drinking water.

Heat stress that does not progress to stroke still warrants a visit to the veterinarian. Your pet’s immune system has been taxed by the event, and so minor, undetected health problems may suddenly become serious. Long term, low-grade heat stress is also hard on the immune system, so be sure to always keep your pets at the optimal temperature for their species (please write in if you need specific information on this).

Treating Heat Stroke

A bird in the throes of heat stoke must be treated immediately and then transported to a veterinarian if death is to be avoided.

Bath the bird in cool but not ice-cold water (unlike quick air temperature changes, an icy bath can do more harm than good). Mix a bit of hand or dish soap into the bath water to defeat the feathers’ oily water-proofing; cool water will have a better effect when actually in contact with the skin. Wrap your pet in a cool towel and, if time permits, wrap some ice or an ice-substitute in a towel and apply to the base of the beak and feet. Above all, drive carefully on the way to the vet’s office – common sense, I know, but I have stories….

Please check out my posts on Twitter and Facebook. Each day, I highlight breaking research, conservation news and interesting stories concerning just about every type of animal imaginable. I look forward to hearing about your interests and experiences as well, and will use them in articles when possible.

Please also post your questions and comments here…I’ll be sure to respond quickly.

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Hot Weather Parrot Tips – Keeping Your Pet Birds Cool in Summer

findiviglio — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 14:16:09 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. Most parrots, finches and other pet birds are native to tropical habitats, but summer weather can still be a threat to their health. Wild birds have numerous ways to regulate their exposure to extreme temperatures, but caged pets must rely upon us to take action on their behalf.

Heat Metabolism in Birds

A basic understanding of avian heat metabolism will help you to evaluate the risks presented by the local weather conditions. Birds maintain higher internal temperatures than do people – 105 F for most species, and up to 108 F in some. So, if you are uncomfortable with the temperature, your bird will likely will be so as well.

Most birds also eat more than we do, given their size, and their metabolisms are very fast. Digesting all the food they take in produces a great deal of metabolic heat – a 5 pound chicken, for example, generates the same amount of heat as a 20 watt light bulb (I didn’t do the conversion, but it is a poultry industry standard!).

How Birds Lose Heat

Birds lose heat to the environment in 2 basic ways. Sensible Heat Loss refers to the passive loss of heat that occurs because the bird is (usually) warmer than its environment. This is similar to what occurs when a hot bowl of soup is left out at room temperature. Birds lose more heat when the air temperature is cool, less as it warms up.

Heat is also carried away from the bird via the evaporation of water produced by the respiratory system. This process is known as Latent Heat Loss. Humid air slows the loss of heat via this process, dry air speeds it up.

From this we can see that hot, humid air is the most serious concern for birds and other pets, and people. So perhaps those folks who don’t mind Arizona’s heat so much because “It’s a dry heat” are onto something!

Symptoms of Heat Stress

Over-heated birds are easy to recognize. Most will open the mouth and pump the throat. This behavior, which resembles panting in mammals, is known as Gular Flapping please see photos of Java Rice Bird and Albatross). The wings may also be held away from the body, and will appear to “droop” (i.e. not be held in close, in the normal manner). As temperatures rise or time goes on, the bird will become listless and weak, and may sit on the cage bottom.

Treating Over-heated Birds

Heat stress in birds is a serious concern and must be addressed immediately; any delay can quickly lead to a fatality. Misting the bird with cool water is effective, but take care not to startle the bird. Your pet’s immune system will already be in a weakened state, and thrashing about the cage in response to a shower will make matters worse.

If you cannot spray the bird or lower the air temperature by moving the cage or using an air conditioner, veterinary advice should be sought. A vet visit is also in order if you lower the temperature but your bird does not behave normally shortly thereafter.

Avoiding Heat-Related Problems

It’s important to plan ahead so that heat stress can be avoided. Although it’s “common knowledge” that window glass, closed cars and such can greatly magnify the sun’s intensity, tragic accidents, often involving children or disabled adults, still occur regularly. Years ago I experimented with a temperature-sensing gun and found that a car parked in the sun on a warm but not terribly hot day in NYC could reach 155 F within minutes…so take care to keep your bird away from such situations. Closed rooms in full sun can also become dangerously warm in short order.

Air conditioners set at moderate levels and fans are obviously useful; even if the air being circulated is warm, it will help in pulling heat from the bird’s body. Be careful not to direct the air flow directly at the bird, and bear in mind that lowering the humidity will also assist your bird’s natural cooling system (please see above).

I move the heat-sensitive amphibians in my collection to my basement each summer; this is a good option for birds in extreme weather as well. When doing so, be sure to set a light timer to keep the bird’s normal day/night schedule, as a sudden change can tax the immune system.

Gel-based freezer packs placed in zip-lock bags can be used to provide a degree of cool air within the bird’s cage. Be sure to frequently change drinking and bath water, and food, during hot weather. Bacterial growth spikes as temperatures rise, often beginning within 15 minutes of exposure to heat. Cool water for drinking and bathing should always be available.

Please also post your questions and comments here…I’ll be sure to respond quickly.

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Parrot Health Concerns – Pacheco’s Disease

findiviglio — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 13:47:42 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. Although it often takes a “back seat” to better-known avian diseases, Pacheco’s Disease (PD) is a serious concern that should be borne in mind by responsible parrot owners.

General Information

First identified in the 1930’s, Pacheco’s Disease is highly contagious and nearly always fatal unless treated early on. Unfortunately, it advances rapidly, and afflicted birds often show no symptoms until it is too late. Shortly before death, birds stricken with PD may produce bright yellow urates and will pass very little fecal material; victims often expire in good weight.

Conures, Amazons, Monk Parrots and Macaws are the most common PD carriers, but any Psittacine may contract the disease. PD is less commonly encountered, but not unknown, in Old World species.

The Stress Connection

Pacheco’s Disease is caused by a Herpes Virus. The virus itself may be carried by birds for years without causing any symptoms…several species of conure are believed to be natural hosts in the wild.

Outbreaks are nearly always associated with stress, a fact which highlights the importance of good husbandry. Stress that causes carriers to shed the virus (thereby infecting other birds) includes, among other things, rough handling, shipment, other illnesses, a poor diet, and an environment that is too noisy, cold, hot or damp. The virus may be spread via direct contact, air (carried by airborne water droplets), or by fecal contamination of food and water.

Treatment

Acyclovir is the drug of choice, but early diagnosis is the key to successful treatment. Unfortunately, the process of catching and medicating sick birds dramatically increases their stress level, and hastens the disease’s progress. A vaccine is available but is not in regular use outside of high-risk situations such as zoological park collections and import/export facilities.

Reducing stress by providing a proper environment and diet is critical in preventing PD and, indeed, all avian diseases. Please write in for information on the care of the particular birds you may be interested in.

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Pet Bird Health – Labored Breathing and Respiratory Distress

findiviglio — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 14:57:19 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. Difficulty in breathing is often a bird owner’s first clue that something is amiss. Wheezing, nasal discharge and other problems that seem related to breathing may in fact arise from any number of ailments.

Symptoms

The signs of respiratory distress are usually obvious. The afflicted bird may physically strain to breathe, usually with the beak held open. Its exertions may be accompanied by a heaving of the abdomen and nasal/eye discharge, and the tail may move up and down with each breath.

Common Causes

Infection by any number of pathogens – fungi, viruses, bacteria or protozoans – may be indicted by respiratory distress. It is particularly important to watch your pets carefully during times of stress, such as moving or the onset of breeding behavior. Stress can weaken the immune system, leaving birds open to attack by microorganisms that are common in the environment and usually well-tolerated. Infection by the fungus Aspergillosus often occurs in this manner.

Toxic fumes released by heated cookware coated with Teflon and other “non-stick” chemicals may be at the root of breathing difficulties experienced by birds housed near cooking areas.

Less Commonly Seen Problems

Birds parasitized by a tracheal-dwelling nematode known as the Gapeworm (Syngamus trachea) will strain (“gape”) with open beaks when breathing. Most common in domestic fowl, Gapeworms are sometimes seen in quail and softbills that are housed outdoors (earthworms and snails are intermediate hosts).

Other less commonly encountered problems include foreign bodies lodged within the nasal passages and allergies. The only foreign-body situation I recall involved a Scarlet Macaw kept in a house under construction; the bird had apparently inhaled fiberglass. The powder down from Cockatoos can cause allergic reactions in people and, it seems, in some birds as well.

Humidity

Air that is much drier or moister than that of a bird’s native habitat could irritate the respiratory system or lead to a fungal infection. This would mainly be a concern for those keeping species that are specifically adapted to unique habitats.

Heat Stress

Birds cool off by gular flapping – pumping their throats rapidly up and down. This is not necessarily related to respiratory distress, but it may be a sign that your pet is over-heating.

Emergency Care

The symptoms mentioned above are signs of a severe problem and should be acted upon immediately. The first step is to remove your pet from the area if an environmental cause is apparent (i.e. smoke, fumes). Outdoor air will be extremely helpful in clearing out the bird’s respiratory system. A veterinary visit is called for, as clearing the symptoms may not address the underlying problem.

As in humans, a bird’s sinus cavities provide a perfect environment for the growth of various pathogens. Populations can multiply with astonishing rapidity, so, again, a veterinarian should be consulted right away.

Keeping Bird and Bird Owner Healthy

Canaries were used to detect fumes/oxygen depletion in mines – don’t ignore this concept when dealing with your own pets. Molds, fungi and, in some situations, accumulated rodent and roach feces, have led to asthma and other severe illnesses. If your pet falls ill, check your home for possible hazards to your own health.

Nothing beats fresh air…a well-ventilated room or Outdoor Aviary http://www.thatpetplace.com/pet/cat/infoL3/24190/category.web will go a long way in maintaining your pet’s good health.

Finding an Avian Veterinarian for Your Pet Bird

findiviglio — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 14:35:01 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. The number of veterinarians experienced in avian medicine is growing by leaps and bounds, as are advances in the field itself. Today, most folks keeping parrots, finches, budgies, canaries, cockatiels, quails and even such exotics as turacos and toucans are within reach of competent medical advice.

Dr. Kevin Wright (Arizona Exotic Animal Hospital)

Those living within driving distance of Mesa, Arizona, are in the enviable position of having access to the foremost exotic animal veterinarian of our time, Dr. Kevin Wright (phone consultations are also available). Co-founder of the Arizona Exotic Animal Hospital, Dr. Wright’s work with birds spans several decades in both the zoo world and private practice.

Many informative care sheets, addressing medical concerns and general husbandry, are posted on the hospital’s website. Those of you with wide interests will find information on animals ranging from tarantulas to sugar gliders.

Association of Avian Veterinarians

The AAV lists practitioners by country and, within the USA, by state. The website is also a great source of information on the organization’s many worthwhile activities.

Bird Clubs, Societies and other Organizations

Bird interest groups are great resources for those seeking a veterinarian, as they usually maintain a list of reputable practitioners. Local veterinarians may even be members, or speak at monthly meetings.

Pet Station posts lists of bird clubs and similar organizations in the USA, Puerto Rico, Canada and the UK.

Other Resources

You can also inquire about avian veterinarians at your local zoo or nature center – try calling the Department of Ornithology or the Volunteer/Docent Office if dealing with a zoo.

Veterinarians who limit their practice to dogs and cats can often direct you to avian-experienced colleagues.

Keeping a Preventative and Emergency Health Care Kit for Birds

findiviglio — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 18:49:31 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. In caring for birds at home and in zoos, I have found that having emergency care items on hand has often prevented minor mishaps from turning into disasters. Supplements that aid in preventative health care are also essential. Today I have assembled a list of products that parallel those used in public aviaries, and which should be every private bird keeper’s possession.

Bird First Aid Kit

The VSI Bird First Aid Kit is stocked with powdered styptic, bandages, antiseptic wipes, forceps and many other useful products, this kit has everything you need to deal with minor emergencies. The emergency card included in the kit is most helpful.

Nutritional Supplements

Lafeber Powdered Vitamins can be used on a daily basis, and are especially useful in that they can be applied to food or water.

Virbac Vita Flight Supplement is flavored with fruit and therefore well-accepted by many birds. It is designed for use during stressful times, such as when a bird has been re-located or is molting, breeding or recovering from an illness. Another of Virbac’s products, Ornabac, is fortified with extra Vitamin B, an important nutrient during especially stressful events.

Feather and Skin Care

Feather Glo Bird Bath helps to keep both skin and feathers in good shape, while Feather Brite Bird Bath Spray contains lanolin and aloe to assist in soothing irritated skin.

Scalex Mite and Lice Spray should always be on hand to address external parasites.

Bitter Apple has long been favored as a means of discouraging feather plucking. It is most effective when applied as soon as plucking commences, and therefore should always be on hand.

Beak Conditioning

Disguised as an attractive toy, the volcanic pumice in Four Paws’ Pumice Kabob is one of the most effective materials for keeping bird beaks naturally trimmed and in prime condition.

Parrot Emergencies – Steps to Take When a Parrot Bites and Hangs On

findiviglio — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 14:38:43 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. Even the smallest lovebird can deliver a painful bite, and larger parrots are capable of inflicting serious injuries. If a parrot bites and holds on, you must respond appropriately in order to limit the bite’s severity.

Do Not Pull Away

In a lifetime of working with animals, I’ve actually been bitten by more snakes than parrots, but the principals are the same. One’s first reaction – to pull away – must be stifled. Instead, push the bitten hand (as an example) towards the parrot’s head. This will relieve pressure on your hand and may force the bird to relinquish its grip. Pulling away will add to the trauma of the bite…I learned this when a concave-casqued hornbill broke my finger; pulling away from an anaconda left me with a souvenir – a tooth that remains buried in my wrist to this day!

Balance

You can also try to disturb the bird’s balance, forcing it to focus on that and to release you. This is best accomplished by tilting the hand or object upon which the parrot is perched (note: do not tilt your hand if the parrot is biting the hand upon which it sits).

Tools

When working closely with birds likely to latch onto me, I always carry an easily accessible object to force into an offending bill. Credit cards, butter knives and spoons will all serve well, depending upon the size of your attacker.

Additional Tactics

Putting the parrot on the floor and/or covering its head with a towel may also cause it to withdraw. A sudden loud noise can also be useful in distracting and startling an aggressive bird.

You might try smacking your hand on something, stomping your foot or turning on a radio if within reach.

In all cases, direct eye contact with the bird should be sought…this does not always work, but excellent results are sometimes forthcoming.

Medical Concerns

Be sure to seek medical advice after being bitten by any animal. Even the smallest of wounds can leave one open to dangerous infections. Do not assume that because your parrot is kept indoors there is no risk of infection – call your doctor!

Lumps, Abscesses, Tumors and Swellings on Budgerigars and other Birds – Part 2

findiviglio — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:22:15 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio. Please see Part I of this article for information on related health concerns.

Feather Cysts

Feather cysts form when feathers growing below the bird’s skin fail to emerge properly. They then curl back and continue to grow, forming elongated lumps at the base of one or several feathers. Secondary bacterial infection may set in, exacerbating the problem.

Feather cysts usually form at the base of the primary wing feathers, and are most commonly seen in budgerigars, canaries and macaws. They should be surgically removed by a veterinarian.

Swellings near the Cloaca

A swollen area just above the cloaca (the common opening for the digestive and respiratory systems in birds) is often indicative of a hernia. Usually related to stomach muscle atrophy, hernias are difficult to treat and require veterinary intervention.

Swellings below the cloaca may also indicate a hernia or, more commonly, a tumor. Egg-bound hen budgerigars and other birds will also appear swollen in this area, and may strain in an attempt to dispel the egg. Immediate veterinary attention is necessary.

Further Reading

Please check out the book Parakeets: a Complete Pet Owner’s Manuel for more information on parakeet care.

Image referenced from morguefile and originally posted by eviljeff.

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Lumps, Abscesses, Tumors and Swellings on Budgerigars and other Birds – Part 2

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Avian Medical Emergencies: Burns

findiviglio — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 21:00:03 +0000

Avian Medical Emergencies: What to do if Your Pet Bird Receives a Burn Injury

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here.

Birds at large in our homes, especially the ever-curious parrots, are at risk for burn injuries. If this happens, calm, quick and medically-appropriate action is absolutely essential if your pet is to survive.

First Step: First Aid

Areas burned by fire, liquid or chemicals should be flushed for 15-20 minutes with cool (not cold) water and then covered with a cool, sterile dressing. Use only medical dressings to cover the afflicted area, as the fibers from blankets, towels and other such materials may stick to the wound. If feathers or other debris have worked their way into the burn site, leave them in place…these should be attended to by a veterinarian.

Grease, butter and ointments should not be used, as they cause a rise in skin temperature and increased pain. Also avoid ice, and do not puncture any blisters that form.

Second Step: To the Vet
All burns require veterinary intervention. Be sure to call your vet with your estimated arrival time – injured birds often go into shock, and time is of the essence. Transport your pet in a warm (use a hot water bottle or plastic bag filled with warm water), dark container and disturb it as little as possible on route.

Electrical Shock and Burns – Your Own Safety Comes First!
Electrical burns are another matter, as CPR and assisted breathing may be necessary…I’ll address this in the future.

In the meanwhile, if your bird suffers an electrical shock (i.e. by biting an appliance cord), it is absolutely essential that you do not touch the bird until you are certain that it is no longer in contact with the current – no good will come from having 2 shock victims!

If the bird is in contact with the electrical current, shut the power from the source (i.e. circuit breaker) or move the wire or appliance away from the bird with a non-metallic object (i.e. wood, plastic, cardboard).

Further Reading
Burns are only one of the hazards that our avian friends may run into while under our care. For a discussion of the leading causes of pet bird deaths, please see http://www.exoticpetvet.net/avian/topten.html.

Please write in with your comments and questions.
Thanks,
Until next time,
Frank Indiviglio

Post from: That Bird Blog

Avian Medical Emergencies: Burns

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