Common diseases of pet birds
Michael P. Jones, DVM, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Infectious diseases
Aspergillosis in a mycotic disease more commonly affecting raptors, however, in pet birds species, the blue-fronted Amazon, African grey parrot, and mynahs are frequently affected. Aspergillosis may result when there are large numbers of spores in the environment. Infections are usually secondary to another event which might compromise the bird's immune system. Treatment is usually long-term and serologic testing is needed to monitor progress.
Candidiasis, another common fungal disease of pet birds, is caused by an opportunistic yeast, Candida albicans, commonly infecting the gastrointestinal tract. Like aspergillosis, candidiasis may be a primary or secondary pathogen. Neonatal cockatiels are often affected.
Chlamydiosis affects nearly all species of pet birds, usually young birds. South American species appear to be affected more commonly than Asian, Australian, or African species. Because of the potential of passing the disease to humans, appropriate testing and control is recommended.
Pacheco's disease is a herpesvirus affecting a wide range of psittacines. Conures and Amazon parrots are often incriminated as asymptomatic carriers. If exposure is known, treatment may be initiated prior to the onset of clinical signs. Birds that survive the disease may become carriers.
Papillomavirus is a papovavirus suspected to be associated with benign epithelial (skin) tumors on un-feathered skin and gastrointestinal tract (cloaca). Treatment consists of surgical or cryotherapy, cauterization, or radiocautery.
Nutritional diseases
Hypovitaminosis A plays an important part on the overall health of birds. Diagnosis is based on dietary history, physical exam, and cytology.
Reproductive disorders
Egg binding is a common problem in female companion species on a poor diet, first-time layers, or chronic egg-layers. Treatment should be initiated early. A wide range of treatments are effective. Cloacal or oviduct prolapse can result from egg-binding.
Egg-yolk peritonitis may occur as a result of failure of the ovum to enter the oviduct, or of trauma. The result is the presence of yolk within the coelomic (abdominal) cavity, which may cause an intense inflammatory reaction or infection. Therapy consists of appropriate antibiotics and fluids. In severe cases, abdominal lavage has been suggested.