RESPIRATORY DISEASES
Respiratory diseases are most common in juvenile and young adult birds. Vary often, respiratory problems are seen in birds recently moved, new introductions, or birds under other stresses.
Nasal discharge, ocular discharge, or swelling below the eye are all good indications of a developing respiratory problem. Diagnosis, testing and treatment should be considered at this point to prevent further development that might include more serious air sac infections or pneumonia. More severely infected birds will show signs of labored breathing (even at rest), increased respiratory rate, and ruffled feathers.
Both developing and severe respiratory infections are difficult to diagnose until late in the infection. Fungal infections (Aspergillus ) and bacterial (Pasteurella, E. coli) and/or Mycoplasma infections are usually what are diagnosed either by laboratory culture or at post mortum examination.
Treatment including the use of systemic antibiotics that have been shown to be sensitive to the agent involved, vitamin and nutritional supplimentation, and supportive care are often successful if a diagnosis is made early.
Aspiration pneumonia is occasionally seen as a result of forcing fluids or the regurgitation of fluids into the trachea and lungs. This may happen as a result of improper administration of oral fluids or medication. Consult your veterinarian for proper administration of any fluids to any age bird.