FIRST AID FOR EXOTIC BIRDS

When administering first aid or medication, it is very important for owners to know how to properly restrain their birds using a large towel. An avian veterinarian, experienced professional groomer or aviculturist will be able to demonstrate the proper technique. This procedure takes patience, gentleness, and understanding.

Never administer oily substances, unprescribed (over-the-counter) medications without professional advice, or alcoholic beverages. The following conditions may require immediate veterinary attention:

Burns: These are serious injuries. Apply copious amounts of cool water and see a veterinarian immediately!

Concussions: This occurs when a bird flies into a wall or window. Provide warmth, keep from further injury and make sure food is available. If the condition doesn't improve within two to three hours, see a vet without delay.

Foreign Objects in the Crop: Prevention is the key. If a foreign object has been swallowed, withhold food and water because surgery may be required.

Protrusion from vent (bird's bottom): Wash with lukewarm water and apply KY Jelly. Try to gently push the protrusion back into place. See a vet.

Papilloma: This looks like a wet raspberry on the bird's vent. See a vet right away.

Egg Binding: This occurs when the female can not expell her egg. Keep her warm in a brooder or hospital cage at 85-90 degrees and 40% humidity. If the bird doesn't improve in one hour try the following: Smear some salad oil on under the birds tail, or dunk just the under part of the patient's body in alternating cold and warm baths. Be careful that the egg shell is never broken inside the bird's body. Egg binding generally occurs among birds that are either too young for breeding, or are breeding too intensively. Birds that are housed in cages and aviaries where room for flying is too small can also suffer from this, as can those that are regularly exposed to temperature variations.

Eye injuries: Wash out with eyewash, and put the bird in a dark area. Ask an avian vet what steps to take.

Fractures: If a wing is fractured, bind the wing to the body with tape. Use butcher wrapping tape, not adhesive tape. See avian vet.

Lacerations: Apply direct pressure for bleeding. Protect the wound from further contamination. Do not apply non-prescribed medication, and see a vet.

Hyperthermia (overheating): spray cool water on the feet and body and apply rubbing alcohol to the feet. See a vet.

First Aid Kit Reprinted by Pretty Birds

Be prepared for emergencies. Assemble a portable first aid kit. Include the following:

Helpful everyday items:

Although serious illnesses or accidents almost always require the advice and care of an avian vet, it will be easier to cope with emergencies if these additional items are available:

Heat source: Infrared lamp (60-100 watt bulb): Heating pad.

Hospital cage or storage container (special cage).

Environment thermometer: Buy one that's easy to read so the temperature can be monitored in the cage.

Kaopectate or Pepto-Bismol: For loose droppings and regurgitation. Soothes and coats digestive tract. Dosage is 2 to 3 drops every four hours. Deliver with plastic dropper, no glass.

Karo Syrup: For dehydration and for quick energy. Add four drops to one quart of water. Administer 8 to 10 drops slowly in the mouth every 20 to 30 minutes with a plastic dropper.

Maalox or DiGel: For crop disorders. Soothes the inflammation and eliminates gas. Dosage: 3 to 5 drops every four hours.

Milk of Magnesia: For constipation. Dosage: 3 to 5 drops in the mouth with a plastic dropper twice daily for two days. Don't use if the bird has kidney problems or heart disease. Consult a vet before administering.

Mineral Oil: For constipation, crop impactation, egg binding. Dosage: 2 drops orally for two days with a plastic dropper. Be careful when administering oil because it can cause pneumonia if it enters the breathing tubes and lungs.

Reprinted by Pretty Birds from Pet Dealer Magazine by Dr. Matthew Vriends

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