Common Cockatoo Diseases
Cockatoo Information Page
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Respiratory Signs, Chronic Depression, Weightloss:
Aspergillosis (fungal disease), bacterial infections / pneumonia, nutritional deficiencies (Hypovitaminosis A), inhaled toxins. ... Sarcocystosis
Behavioral Problems due to their dependent nature.
Feather picking and screaming are common characteristics. Behavior problems: Self-mutilating cockatoos chew their bodies open, especially the chest and legs. This is extremely difficult to cure.
Localized Herpes Infections:
Wart-like growths or areas of white discoloration on feet.
Blood Parasites:
Microscopic and tape worms. These parasites may be associated with kidney disease, and most of these birds are immunosuppressed.
Bad Feather / Beak Condition; Missing and Misshapen Feathers:
Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD). A deadly, highly contagious (air-borne disease). Only supportive treatment available. No cure.
Cloacal Prolapse:
Normally resolved through surgery. Affected birds should not be used for breeding.
Cockatoos are Susceptible to the Following Diseases:
- Fatty Tumors (especially rose-breasted cockatoos)
- Tumors: Tumors can be benign or malignant (cancerous) and can involve any organ or system. Some species of birds tend to develop benign fatty tumors called "Lipomas."
- Lipomas are commonly seen in overweight Amazon Parrot, Rose-breasted Cockatoos and Budgies. It seems that older budgies are more prone to tumors of the ovary, testicle or kidney, which may eventually put pressure on the sciatic nerve on the affected side, resulting in lameness of the foot or leg.
- Fibromas are tumors found on the wing and they may need to be surgically removed. In some instances, amputation of the wing may be necessary.
- Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease, PBFD, Beak & Feather
- Feather Plucking / Mutilation
- Sarcocystosis
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