Advice regarding coughing/sneezing Red Front Macaw

[mauibill]

We have a 32 year old hand-raised Red Front Macaw that has begun having irregular coughing/sneezing attacks. He is lethargic, fluffed up feathers, trembling and not taking his regular treats. Also not eating/pooping well and his beak is warm. There is no noticeable discharge from the nares, no irregular or noisy breathing and he is perching ok, We don't have an avian vet available to x-ray or culture him for pathogens. I have ordered a broad spectrum antibiotic, doxycycline, hoping it might treat an unknown bacterial infection, but I am asking for assistance with other possible diagnoses and treatments. Thank you.

 

[kme3388]

Hi there,
The combination of signs you describe in a 32-year-old macaw is concerning for a serious systemic illness, not just a mild upper respiratory infection. The lethargy, fluffed feathers, reduced appetite, decreased droppings, trembling, and refusal of favorite treats indicate that he is quite ill. Even though he is still perching and isn't showing obvious respiratory distress, parrots often hide severe disease until late. Giving antibiotics requires specific doses, courses, and hydration.

• Keep him warm (around 85–90°F / 29–32°C) if tolerated.
• Minimize handling and stress.
• Encourage fluids.
• Offer favorite soft foods:
  • warm cooked sweet potato
  • cooked rice
  • soaked pellets
  • warm vegetables
• Monitor weight if you have a gram scale. Daily weights are extremely valuable.
• Monitor droppings carefully

In this situation I would work on finding a vet for assistance.

 

[AMD75]

We have a 32 year old hand-raised Red Front Macaw that has begun having irregular coughing/sneezing attacks. He is lethargic, fluffed up feathers, trembling and not taking his regular treats. Also not eating/pooping well and his beak is warm. There is no noticeable discharge from the nares, no irregular or noisy breathing and he is perching ok, We don't have an avian vet available to x-ray or culture him for pathogens. I have ordered a broad spectrum antibiotic, doxycycline, hoping it might treat an unknown bacterial infection, but I am asking for assistance with other possible diagnoses and treatments. Thank you.

You mention you do NOT have a Avian vet available, do you have any vet available. These symtoms are serious. In our area we had to take one of our parrots to a regular vet and he was able to help. Even though he wasn't specialized. I wish you the best of luck.

 

[osklvste81]

The sooner the better getting to a vet. Some vets maintain a consultation circle. Prehaps yours is in one. Maybe not avian but one with a bit more bird experience. Make sure your bird is at least drinking water. Dehydration is to be avoided at all costs. Again getting to a vet is important. It's the most important thing.

 

[wrench1375]

Also any Zoo in and around your area may have a contact with a Vet who has avian experience. But do this NOW! This is a very sick bird.