Avian Tuberculosis
Also see Mycobacterium
This is a bacterial infection, which can be found in a wide range of bird species.
Symptoms: Although sudden death can occur in a bird with normal body weight, the usual presentation of a bird with TB is one of progressive weight loss in spite of a good appetite. Depression, diarrhea, increased thirst, and respiratory difficulty may also be present. Decreased egg production often occurs in birds that were laying eggs. Once the disease appears, it is impossible to eliminate. Eventual death is the usual outcome.
Index of Bird Diseases … Symptoms and Potential Causes … Bird Species and Diseases They are Most Susceptible to
Route of Infection and Prevention: The disease spreads by contaminated droppings and can be readily picked up by birds that feed in close flocks. It is very difficult to diagnose, and there is no known treatment.
The best way to control this disease is to remove infected individuals (some can recover and become long term carriers of the disease, so they are best taken to a vet). Maintain meticulous hygiene routine in your bird areas.
Holistic Approaches:
Goldenseal Herb:
Strong antibiotic properties. It has a long history of use in infections including bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic. Staph, strep, E. coli, Vibrio cholera, Giardia lamblia,and even tuberculosis bacterium have proven sensitive to this herb.
NEED A VET?
USA: Find Your Local Avian Veterinarian
Information contained on this website is provided as general reference only. For application to specific circumstances, professional advice should be sought.
