Veterinary care for birds

Congratulations, you're a proud new bird owner. Now that your little guy's settled in, it's a good time to have him examined by a veterinarian. Birds are experts at masking illness, so it's important to ensure that your new friend is physically healthy.

Finding the right veterinary care

Veterinarians specializing in pet birds aren't always easy to find. Contact bird clubs and breeders in your area for a referral. The Association of Avian Veterinarians is also an excellent resource to locate a qualified doctor near you. This is also a good time to purchase a carrier to safely transport your pet. Check out your pet supply store for a carrier that's big enough for your bird to move around in, but will not allow him room to fly. Some owners use hard-sided plastic carriers designed for dogs and cats.

Veterinary specialists will give your bird a complete physical

When you bring your bird for his first exam, be prepared to provide information on where and when you purchased your pet, what you're feeding him and anything unusual you've noticed about him. The veterinarian will then give your bird a complete physical exam.

The beak, feathers, skin and feet will be checked for signs of disease, nutritional problems and parasites. Eyes and nostrils will be inspected for discharge and swelling. Your vet will feel the bird's breast muscles and abdomen for any abnormalities, and will use a stethoscope to ensure that your pet's lungs and heart are in good working order. Your bird will be weighed and, if necessary, have a nail trimming and wing clipping.

Your veterinarian may also run a complete blood count (CBC), Gram's stain and mini-blood chemistry. These tests will help determine the true health of the bird. A CBC can be an indicator of anemia or infection; a Gram's stain tests for the presence of bacteria. Depending on the type of bird, other tests may be recommended. Calcium tests, for example, are run on African gray parrots, who are often deficient in this mineral.

Yearly veterinary services for checkups

To keep your bird in good condition, Experts suggest an annual visit to the vet. Weight loss or gain, often an indicator of illness, will be checked, and any necessary tests can help the veterinarian monitor your pet's health. Nail trimming and wing clipping, when required, can be done at this time.

If you notice any unusual symptoms in your pet, do not wait until your yearly check-up to consult the vet. Signs of illness in avians include:

• Red, watery or dull eyes
• Unkempt plumage
• Shivering and shaking
• Changes in the color and consistency of droppings
• Compulsive feather picking

Sick birds will often fluff out their feathers in an effort to keep warm; others sit lethargically on their perch or, worse, on the cage floor with their eyes closed. If you think your bird is ill, it's important to contact your avian veterinarian immediately.