How to Treat Polyomavirus in Caique Parrots

Pionites melanocephala & Pionites leucogaster

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Caiques have been called clowns of the bird world for good reason — the clown is a truly appropriate metaphor for this high-energy, medium-sized mischief maker. You haven’t seen playful until you’ve seen a caique in action.

• Caiques like to play on the backs and an excited caique might hop
• Two species of caiques are commonly kept as pets: the black-headed caique (Pionites melanocephala) and the white-bellied caique (Pionites leucogaster)
• Diet & Nutrition: Parrot food

Well known as the clown of companion birds, caiques are loved by bird fanciers for their outgoing nature and ability to make people laugh with their playful antics. The proper way to pronounce caique is “kai-eke” — don’t ask for a “cake” at the bird shop, or they might point you to the nearest bakery!

If the African grey parrot is the intellectual of the bird community, and the macaw is the show-off, then the caique is the clown. Caiques have been called clowns more often than Barnum and Bailey have had shows in three rings, and for good reason-the clown is a truly appropriate metaphor for this medium-sized mischief maker.

Two species of caiques are commonly kept as pets: the black-headed caique (Pionites melanocephala) and the white-bellied caique (Pionites leucogaster). The yellow-thighed caique, a subspecies of the white-bellied, is also kept as a pet, though it is less common in the pet trade. The black-headed and the white-bellied caique have a similar appearance, with a few obvious distinctions. They both are about 9 to 10 inches long, and their color composition is relatively simple, with “sections” of the bird in green, orange, yellow, and white.

The black-headed caique has, obviously, a black head and black beak, while the white-bellied has, you guessed it, a white belly (so does the black-headed, incidentally), horn-colored beak, and a bright orange and yellow head. The caique is a stocky bird, surprisingly heavy for its size, as most new owners will point out.

Native Region / Natural Habitat

Caiques are native to South America.

Care & Feeding

Though the caique is a medium-sized bid, it needs a large environment. This energetic bird will suffer greatly from being confined to a small cage. Think about building a small aviary if you can, or at least provide your caique with the largest housing you can afford. Make sure that the bar-spacing is appropriate for a bird of its size and that there’s a grating on the bottom of the cage. This playful bird will discover the weaknesses in its cage in no time, so be sure that the cage is of quality construction, such as those made from stainless steel.

As with most parrots, caiques thrive on a pelleted-base diet that is supplemented with fresh fruit and vegetables. Nutri-Berries are an especially good food for caiques because they offer fun foraging and balanced nutrition.

We are often asked about vaccinating our parrots. And the answer is, well, maybe. We have limited vaccines and some have come and gone from the market — mostly gone. The only vaccine available is the polyomavirus vaccine. So what should we do?

Polyomavirus at one time was killing our parrots — mostly hand-reared chicks and sometimes adults, and often in large numbers. In budgies, the disease would affect the nestlings from 10-25 days of age, causing death acutely. Larger parrots are also susceptible to avian polyomavirus (APV) infection but usually do not have signs of disease. Some species are highly susceptible to disease, especially caiques, while others rarely if ever develop signs of disease.

APV-disease occurs at different ages in different species. In conures, death typically occurs in birds less than 6 weeks of age. Death in macaws and Eclectus parrots occur at about (8 weeks) weeks or younger. Most, possibly all, of the nestlings lost are being hand-fed when this happens. Infected chicks that are being hand-fed appear healthy, show very few premonitory signs, and then die suddenly. Chicks kept in the nest box, being fed by the parents, rarely develop disease; this fortunate outcome is due to the transfer of secretory antibody. When signs do occur, they precede death by up to 24 hours. Observant owners may notice delayed crop emptying, weakness, a generalized pallor, or bruising under the skin in the preceding hours before death. Yellow discoloration of the urates is another rare observation. Necropsy findings typically include generalized pallor with subcutaneous and subserosal hemorrhages and enlargement of the spleen and liver. Less commonly, ascites of abdominal fluid and/or pericardial effusion around the heart may be present.

Infection versus Disease

It has become evident that infection and disease are not synonymous, particularly with this virus. Many birds can be infected with the virus but rarely do adult birds develop disease. They develop sensitized B and T lymphocytes, as well as antibodies and an immune response that prevents disease from occurring and eliminates the viral infection. Those that do show disease often are immunosuppressed. The exception is caique species, where adult birds can develop disease. Whether disease will develop is dependent on the species of bird infected, the age of the bird infected, and whether that bird is immune-suppressed. Birds that are infected and do not develop disease still have virus replication within their bodies and shed virus in their droppings for a period of time. The length of time that virus shedding occurs, again, depends on the age of the bird at the time of infection and its species. Some hand-fed birds that are partially immune-competent will develop and recover from transient disease. These birds often retain the viral infection for prolonged periods of time and serve to transmit the infection to naïve individuals.

Birds that are infected but do not develop signs of disease will become viremic and may begin shedding virus through the cloaca and possibly oral mucosa. Rarely, viremia lasts for months. Fecal shedding lasts for up to 16 weeks, but again is much shorter in adult birds and nestlings that are infected at an older age.

Polyomavirus Vaccine

A commercial vaccine is available for polyomavirus. Some avian veterinarians recommend vaccination starting at 21 days of age and repeat the vaccine in two weeks. They then follow the recommendation that the parrot should receive the vaccine yearly. Some birds immunized with this vaccine will develop persistent swellings at the immunization site, which is usually the subcutaneous tissue over the caudal pectoral muscles. These lesions will take several weeks to a few months to regress completely. There are other times that these injection sites can lead to dermal tumors. The other problem with the vaccine is that, scientifically, administration of the vaccine in one study did not result in titers when given to young parrots that had not been previously exposed to the virus. Multiple blood samples were collected including 2 weeks after the second booster. None of the naïve individuals produced detectable antibody titers. Antibody was detected in a 1-year-old sun conure that survived a polyomavirus outbreak. This bird had detectable titers prior to vaccination that did not change throughout the study. Because none of the naive parrots produced any antibody titers, it was unknown if the vaccine could protect them if they were exposed to the virus.

For these reasons, other avian veterinarians have chosen not to vaccinate parrots for polyomavirus. While there are other infectious diseases out there that affect our feathered companions and can cause serious harm, effective vaccines have not been produced to date to keep them from getting diseases these organisms cause.

Importance of Annual Vet-Checks

But that does not mean that because we don’t have reliable vaccines for our parrots we should not take them to our avian veterinarians for yearly exams. All companion birds, just like our dogs and cats, need to get checked out with a yearly examination. Many companion birds can have low-grade infections, and if the immune system becomes depressed, can develop serious signs of illness quickly. For this reason, many avian veterinarians will perform Gram stains of the choanal slit in the oral cavity of the patient along with a fecal Gram stain. This will help them to determine if there are infections in the bird, which attempts to mask signs of disease.

Depending on the age and the health status of a particular avian patient, we might also take X-rays, measure their blood pressure, do cardiac ultrasounds, and/or take blood for various tests. All of these processes, along with reviewing the husbandry of the avian patient, is designed to keep them as healthy as possible. We want them to all lead long and healthy, enjoyable lives!

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What is Polyomavirus (French Molt)?

Avian polyomavirus is a virus that may cause serious disease or even death in cage birds, particularly in the case of young chicks between one week to two months of age. Avian polyomavirus is a papovavirus, which is a highly contagious DNA virus that sometimes leads to diseases such as French molt or the “feather-losing disease” in birds. French molt affects birds all over the world, primarily budgerigars (commonly called budgies or parakeets) and psittacines (parrots). At the current time, there is no treatment for avian polyomavirus, so a vast number of chicks continue to die each year due to outbreaks.

Because the virus is both deadly and easily spread, bird fanciers and breeders are recommended to have in-depth knowledge of the polyoma virus and French molt, including its signs and symptoms, potential causes, and any steps to minimize the risk of outbreak. Breeding, as well as the showing, buying and selling of birds, can be precarious if the breeder or fancier is not aware of diseases such as French molt. The best way to avoid French molt from infecting your bird or aviary is by taking some preventive measures, including quarantining new birds, maintaining a sanitary environment and providing proper nutrition. A vaccine is also available for adult birds, but, of course, this does not assist birds already diseased.

Primarily observed in in very young budgerigars (commonly called budgies or parakeets) and parrots, polyomavirus is typically noticed initially due to the condition of the young bird’s feathers. Chicks with the virus are usually born appearing quite normal, but between weeks six to eight, irregularities in the feathers begin to become observable. Soon after weaning, infected chicks will begin to lose plumage, or else fail to develop feathers at all. Fledglings with normally growing plumage may suddenly drop all secondary feathers, as well as tail feathers, which are the longest feathers on the bird. Some birds will drop a few of the larger feathers, but maintain the tail feather.

The smallest feathers, for whatever reason, are usually not impacted by the viral progression. The belly is typically an unaffected area. Unfortunately, most birds infected with avian polyomavirus will never be able to fly due to the loss (or abnormalities) to their wing and tail feathers. Some birds, however, will regrow healthy-appearing feathers, but should still not be selected for breeding. Some owners will choose to cull the bird due to immune system weakness, a condition that may place the entire aviary at risk of infection.

Adult birds are carriers of the virus; they do not typically show signs or symptoms, including the loss or retarded growth of feathers. It’s been documented that adult birds develop antibodies. The reason for this is unknown. What causes French molt, or what brings about the symptoms in one bird as opposed to another, is also debated among aviary specialists. It is believed that the virus can spread indirectly –from one bird to the next by way of fecal matter, lung secretions and respiratory droplets, dust, feather dust, mites, or dander, among other means. Bird to bird direct contact through egg transmission or parental feeding and care has also been cited as a possible form of contagion. Many young birds will die before showing signs of the disease. In others, there is a quick onset of lethargy, as well as possible bruising and small sores.

Avian polyomavirus is a highly contagious virus that may cause serious disease or even death in infected birds, particularly in budgerigars (commonly called budgies or parakeets) and psittacines (parrots).

Symptoms of Polyomavirus (French Molt) in Birds

• Feather loss
• Lethargy
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Tremor
• Bruising
• Reddened skin
• Small sores
• Swollen belly
• Sudden death

Causes of Polyomavirus (French Molt) in Birds

Stress, including poor nutrition while breeding, over-breeding, insects, and a mite infestation are factors that could precipitate the condition. Bird to bird transmission (parental feeding or egg transmission) can spread the virus, and it may also be attributable to environmental conditions, including a lack of hygiene in the aviary. Feather dust and bird droppings may be culprits, particularly the ingestion or respiration of contaminated waste in food and water. The introduction of a new bird is always a risk; buying, selling and showing must be taken very seriously due to the highly contagious nature of French molt. The disease is easily spreadable from aviary to aviary.

Diagnosis of Polyomavirus (French Molt) in Birds

The veterinarian will make the diagnosis typically by performing a physical exam, DNA probe and taking a blood sample. The primary characteristic of the disease is the loss of feathers. In absence of other clinical symptoms that suggest a different type of infection, the vet will diagnose the bird with French molt.

If a bird dies, immediately take care to wrap the body and place in a refrigeration unit. Bring the bird to your veterinarian for necropsy so the presence of the virus can be determined. Post-mortem, the virus is diagnosed based, in part, on the appearance of enlarged hearts and livers. The organs (such as the brain) may indicate the presence of spores seen with this virus.

Treatment of Polyomavirus (French Molt) in Birds

There is no treatment for Polyomavirus in Budgies. Some veterinarians believe in treating a clearly infected bird with an antiviral such as acyclovir or AZT. While these are used to treat other viruses, both may be helpful in cases of French molt. Make sure that the ill bird is segregated from other birds.

Recovery of Polyomavirus (French Molt) in Birds

Affected birds can be given special nutritional supplements and silica, per veterinary advice. Prevention is your best course of action. It is imperative for the health of your aviary or bird to keep the living environment disinfected. Your veterinarian can recommend a safe, commercial-grade disinfectant. Thoroughly clean all utensils, wear gloves, and wash your hands between handling your bird; insect control is imperative.

In the meantime, to prevent the spread of infection within your aviary, it is essential to vaccinate the adults. Please follow up with your veterinarian about this vaccine, as well as a yearly booster.

*Wag! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. Items are sold by the retailer, not Wag!.

Polyomavirus Infections: Introduction

Polyomavirus Infections: A viral infection that is often acquired during childhood but generally presents no symptoms. However, that virus may be reactivated when a patient receives immunosuppressive therapy following an organ transplant. Most adults have antibodies to the virus in their bodies. The polyomavirus family has two main subgroups: BK virus and JC virus. More detailed information about the symptoms, causes, and treatments of Polyomavirus Infections is available below.

Symptoms of Polyomavirus Infections

• Asymptomatic
• Kidney problems following transplant
• Mild respiratory infection
• Fever
• Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy
• more symptoms. »

Home Diagnostic Testing

Home medical testing related to Polyomavirus Infections:

Wrongly Diagnosed with Polyomavirus Infections?

Causes of Polyomavirus Infections

Misdiagnosis and Polyomavirus Infections

Antibiotics often causes diarrhea: The use of antibiotics are very likely to cause some level of diarrhea in patients. The reason is that antibiotics kill off not only “bad” bacteria, but can also kill the “good”. read more »

Research about Polyomavirus Infections

Clinical Trials for Polyomavirus Infections

The US based website ClinicalTrials.gov lists information on both federally and privately supported clinical trials using human volunteers.

Some of the clinical trials listed on ClinicalTrials.gov for Polyomavirus Infections include:

• Impact of Immunosuppressive Regimens on Polyomavirus-Related Transplant Nephropathy – This study is currently recruiting patients (Current: 23 Nov 2006) – CsA + MMF,Tacr + MMF,Tacr + MMF with conversion to Tacr + ERL
• A Study to Evaluate the Use of Cidofovir (an Experimental Drug) for the Treatment of Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML) in AIDS Patients – This study has been completed (Current: 23 Nov 2006) – Cidofovir,Probenecid
• Comparison of Anti HIV Drugs Used Alone or in Combination With Cytosine Arabinoside to Treat Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML) in HIV-Infected Patients – This study has been completed (Current: 23 Nov 2006) – Filgrastim,Cytarabine,Zidovudine,Zalcitabine,Didanosine
• A Pilot Study of the Efficacy of Recombinant Alpha Interferon (IFN-A2b) and Zidovudine (AZT) in the Treatment of Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML) Complicating HIV-1 Infection – This study has been completed (Current: 23 Nov 2006) – Interferon alfa-2b,Zidovudine
• A Study of ddI in Patients With AIDS Who Become Sicker While Taking Zidovudine – This study has been completed (Current: 23 Nov 2006) – Didanosine
• more trials. »

Polyomavirus Infections: Broader Related Topics

• Viral diseases
• Conditions involving a pathogen
• more types. »

Types of Polyomavirus Infections

User Interactive Forums

Read about other experiences, ask a question about Polyomavirus Infections, or answer someone else’s question, on our message boards:

• I can not get a diagnosis. Please help.
• Tell us your medical story.
• Share your misdiagnosis story.
• What is the best treatment for this?
• See all the forums.

Date: May 25, 2014, updated and modified July 17, 2014

Reviewed by: Ian Tizard, BVMS, PhD, Dipl. ACVM, ScD; Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine and Neil Forbes, BVetMed DECAMS FRCVS; Great Western Exotics, Swindon, United Kingdom

Key Points

• Avian bornavirus has been shown to be a cause of the disease syndrome formerly known as proventricular dilatation disease or PDD.
• Avian bornavirus is a labile virus, susceptible to most disinfectants, detergents, and ultraviolet light.
• Birds can harbor asymptomatic avian bornavirus infection.
• The avian bornavirus is intermittently shed in feces and urates.
• Clinical disease develops secondary to the body’s response to infection, as lymphocytic-plasmacytic infiltrate develops in the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves and is frequently described as neuropathic ganglioneuritis.
• Progression of clinical disease, or neuropathic ganglioneuritis, can be slow or quite rapid.
• The clinical signs of neuropathic ganglioneuritis typically vary from primarily gastrointestinal, primarily neurological, or both gastrointestinal and neurological.
• Definitive diagnosis is challenging antemortem, but typically relies upon a combination of PCR and serology.
• Whenever possible, isolation of infected birds is recommended; culling of infected birds is NOT recommended.

Proventricular dilatation disease or PDD is one of the most frustrating avian conditions encountered today. The recent discovery of a causal relationship between PDD and avian bornavirus has not simplified the challenges that are faced. The detection of avian bornavirus infection is common in birds with PDD but is also detected in birds with other chronic diseases that are not diagnosed with PDD. Proventricular dilatation disease was first reported in the late 1970s . . .

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What is Cardiac Disease?

There are several species of birds that are prone to developing cardiac disease. These include waterfowl, doves, pigeons, turkeys, chickens and psittacine birds. The most common psittacine birds that are affected with cardiac disease include blue fronted amazons, African Grey parrots, cockatoos, Quaker or Monk parrots and macaws.

It is fairly common for a domesticated bird to suffer from cardiac disease, especially the long lived species. Just like in humans, birds can suffer from high cholesterol, heart attacks and hardening of the arteries. As your bird ages it is important to do periodic checks of their cardiac health to find any changes and quickly treat them before their health is significantly impacted.

Symptoms of Cardiac Disease in Birds

When a bird is suffering from cardiac disease many times the symptoms are nonspecific and are accompanied by other diseases. This makes it more difficult to properly diagnose cardiac disease until the other diseases are treated. If your bird is exhibiting any of these symptoms contact your veterinarian for an appointment to discuss the possibility of cardiac disease.

• Lethargy
• Weakness
• Abdominal distension
• Difficulty breathing
• Bluish tint to skin around the eyes, especially noticeable in African Grey parrots
• Exercise intolerance

Causes of Cardiac Disease in Birds

Just like in humans, there are several causes of cardiac disease in birds. Genetics will play a role in the development of cardiac disease, as will age. New research suggests that cardiac disease in birds can be caused by an inflammatory disease. Heart problems will result after your bird suffers long periods of chronic inflammation.

Diet and exercise will also play a role in the development of cardiac disease. A bird that prefers to sit on their perch rather than exercise and be active will be more likely to develop cardiac disease. Birds that are overweight will have an extra strain on their heart and can suffer from cardiac problems.

Diagnosis of Cardiac Disease in Birds

It is more difficult to diagnose cardiac disease in birds since many times there are other health problems that hide the symptoms of any heart problems. There is limited research being done on avian cardiac disease. When testing for any cardiac problems in your bird, there are very limited points of reference and that means there is not really a normal reference point to determine if your bird’s test results are abnormal or normal.

Most diagnostic techniques are inadequate for a bird since the size of the bird is significantly smaller than other animals that are tested. Their naturally fast heart rate also makes diagnostic techniques basically useless. The stress that each test puts on the bird can be extremely detrimental to their overall health.

Your veterinarian will use radiographs if your bird is not overly stressed by the procedure to determine if the heart is enlarged. Generally, a diagnosis of cardiac disease is done based solely on physical examination.

Treatment of Cardiac Disease in Birds

Since treating cardiac disease in birds is relatively new, there are few studies that exist and even fewer medications that have been tested and approved for domesticated birds. The biggest problem with the medications that have been approved is that a medication may work on one bird species but not necessarily in another species. There are no universal medications that can be used for all domesticated bird species.

Another problem with trying to properly treat cardiac disease in birds is that in most cases the disease is not diagnosed until the heart is showing advanced changes due to the disease or the heart has completely failed.

Preventing cardiac disease from ever occurring is much more effective than actually trying to treat it once it does occur. Keep your bird on a diet that is low in fat and cholesterol and keep your bird active. A proper diet will go a long way in preventing cardiac disease in your bird. Speak with your veterinarian about the proper nutrition for your bird and what your bird’s diet should consist of. Just like with humans, a diet rich in heart-healthy foods will keep plaque from building in the arteries.

Keeping your bird caged is not allowing them to have adequate exercise. A flight cage outside where they can move and exercise is a great way to keep their heart healthy. Be sure that they are getting daily exercise.

Recovery of Cardiac Disease in Birds

Most birds that are diagnosed with cardiac disease are diagnosed too late for any available treatments to be effective. You know your bird best. If you notice any changes in their behavior that could be indicative of having heart problems, have your veterinarian do a full assessment. Early detection is essential to your bird living a longer life with the proper management of the disease.

You can help prevent your bird from developing cardiac disease by being aware of what is in your bird’s diet. Remove fatty foods that are high in cholesterol to avoid any plaque buildup within their arteries. Allow plenty of exercise so their heart muscle can remain strong and healthy.

*Wag! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. Items are sold by the retailer, not Wag!.

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What is Polyomavirus (Non-budgerigar Psittacine)?

Avian polyomavirus is a virus that often leads to severe disease and sudden death in many types of psittacine and non-psittacine birds. Currently an agent of infectious disease in birds worldwide, avian polyomavirus is primarily causing damage to the health of budgerigars (budgies), macaws, conures, eclectus parrots, ringneck parrots and lovebirds. At present time, the avian polyomavirus is the leading cause of death in young, unvaccinated parrots. The virus is leading to a life-threatening disease in birds called French molt or “feather losing disease.” Since the virus is highly contagious, it can spread quickly throughout entire aviaries.

French molt takes its greatest toll on neonates or very young chicks, likely due to their underdeveloped or emerging immune systems. Once the young psittacine becomes ill with French molt, the bird will quickly lose most of its larger feathers, as well as the ability to fly for the rest of its lifetime. The bird will also sustain damage to an already fledgling immune system, which increases its vulnerability to bacterial or viral illness. In this case, to protect the aviary some may choose to cull the bird, even if there is a regrowth of feathers. In many cases, however, the bird will experience sudden death without revealing any signs or symptoms of illness. Even when born appearing fully healthy, an infected chick will suddenly “drop” its largest feathers, show signs of lethargy and stop eating. Within 24-48 hours, these birds will usually succumb to death. Mortality rates in birds less than two weeks of age are as high as 100%. In addition to chicks, adult psittacine birds also become infected. In most cases, adult birds survive infection, though subtle symptoms such as appetite loss and diarrhea may occur.

Currently, any member of the Psittacidae bird family, such as parrots and cockatoos, is highly susceptible to avian polyomavirus. An enormous range of bird families are also at risk, including Passeriformes (weaver finches, canaries), Galliformes (chickens and turkeys) and Falconiformes (falcons and hawks). While the virus was identified back in the 1980’s, the mechanics, causes and treatment possibilities of the virus, and any resulting diseases, continues to confound avian veterinarians, researchers and breeders. Research is currently happening worldwide in hope of preventing a potential outbreak of APV infection in the future. In the meantime, to prevent the spread of infection within your aviary, it is imperative to vaccinate the adults.

Avian polyomavirus is a highly contagious virus that may cause serious disease or death in birds, particularly in budgerigars (commonly called budgies or parakeets) and psittacines (parrots).

Symptoms of Polyomavirus (Non-budgerigar Psittacine) in Birds

• Loss of appetite
• Depression
• Lethargy
• Weight loss
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Bleeding under the skin

Causes of Polyomavirus (Non-budgerigar Psittacine) in Birds

Polyomavirus infections “ignite” upon different forms of stress, including poor nutrition while breeding, over-breeding, mites and insects. Transmission of the virus occurs either directly from bird to bird (parental feeding), or may be attributable to environmental conditions, including a lack of hygiene in the aviary. Feather dust and bird droppings may be culprits, particularly the ingestion or respiration of contaminated waste in food and water. One form of transmission occurs per infected respiratory droplets that circulate through air systems in unsanitary aviaries.

The introduction of a new bird is always a risk; buying and selling and appearances at shows must be taken very seriously due to the highly contagious nature of French molt. The virus is also transmissible between aviaries when contaminated goods are exchanged. Specific quarantine procedures must be followed. Egg transmission has been documented in budgerigars, but not in psittacines.

Diagnosis of Polyomavirus (Non-budgerigar Psittacine) in Birds

Post-mortem, the virus is diagnosed based, in part, on the appearance of enlarged hearts and livers. Tissues, the brain and various organs are examined for viral spores.

In surviving birds, the diagnosis can typically be made by physical exam, DNA probe, fecal exam and a blood sample. An antibody assay can be used to detect previous infection.

The primary observable characteristic of the virus is the loss of feathers. Otherwise, diagnosis of a live bird is challenging since clinical symptoms mirror other infectious illnesses.

If a bird dies, immediately take care to wrap the body and place in a refrigeration unit. Bring the bird to your veterinarian for necropsy so the presence of the virus can be determined.

Treatment of Polyomavirus (Non-budgerigar Psittacine) in Birds

There is no specific treatment for avian polyomavirus in psittacines; therapy is typically supportive in nature. Strategies for quarantine, as well as the potential benefit of nutritional supplements, should be discussed with a veterinarian. Some vets choose to treat affected birds with antiviral medications such as acyclovir or AZT, as well as injections of vitamin K.

New birds and visitors should not be allowed in the aviary or nursery. Complete isolation means that the bird must be protected from any direct or indirect exposure to other birds. Many bird fanciers are surprised to learn that the virus may be introduced into an aviary or nursery upon shipment or attainments of goods from a warehouse or store that keeps live birds for sale or observation.

Recovery of Polyomavirus (Non-budgerigar Psittacine) in Birds

Affected birds can be given special nutritional supplements and silica, per veterinary advice.

Prevention is your best course of action. It is imperative for the health of your aviary or bird to keep the living environment disinfected. Polyomavirus appears to be resistant to most grocery-store type disinfectants. Ask your veterinarian for a recommendation of a safe, commercial-grade disinfectant.

Insect activity must be controlled immediately. Thoroughly clean all utensils, wear gloves, and wash your hands between handlings.

In the meantime, to prevent the spread of infection within your aviary, it is imperative to vaccinate the adults. Please follow up with your veterinarian about this vaccine, as well as a yearly booster.

*Wag! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. Items are sold by the retailer, not Wag!.

APV readily infects adult parrots.30,36,44,48 Most infections, probably greater than 99.9% of then, are completely asymptomatic. These birds become infected, shed virus for a period of time, and never look or act ill. APV disease, however, has been documented in adult birds.24,25,46,50,58 So why do these few adult birds develop APV disease? The answer in most cases is that they are immunosuppressed with a concurrent infection of PBFDV.24,25,46 The author has documented an outbreak of APV disease in adult eclectus parrots.46 All birds had PBFDV. Disease has also been identified in adult cockatoos,24,25,34,58 again when these birds were tested for PBFDV, they have been found to be positive. I have previously mentioned that young adult lovebirds can die with APV disease. Again, concurrent infections with PBFDV may be the explanation for why. In the authors experience, on every occasion that APV outbreaks have occurred in lovebirds, PBFDV could also be found in the aviary.

PBFDV-infected birds are a common source for APV in an aviary.44 PBFDV-infected birds, like AIDS patients have a poorly functioning immune system. Therefore, if they become infected with APV they cannot clear the virus. Some of these birds will develop full blown APV disease and die. Most will become persistently infected. These persistently infected birds will then shed virus continuously from their skin and in their feather dust. This constant virus shedding contaminates the environment and makes it likely that it will be tracked into the nursery.

ARE CAIQUES MORE SUSCEPTIBLE TO APV INFECTION EVEN AS ADULTS, THAN OTHER PARROTS?

One of the first reports of APV disease in adult birds documented an outbreak where an eclectus, a painted conure, and 3 white-bellied caiques died.50 These birds clearly had APV-disease. They were not, however, tested for the PBFDV. So we do not know if this means that they were normal birds that have a predilection for APV disease, or were birds infected with PBFDV and were immunosuppressed. Since that time, the author has heard of a number of deaths in adult caiques. However, none of these birds were tested for PBFDV. Thus, the answer to this question remains elusive and requires further investigation. Because PBFDV may not cause histologic evidence of disease, the author feels that it is essential that when APV disease occurs in adult birds or in species where it is not normally a problem, that they be tested by DNA probes for the PBFDV.

It can be hard for novice bird owners to understand–one day your parrot is a sweet, tame, happy member of your family, and the next he or she is acting like a vicious little monster. The most common reason for these sorts of personality changes is that your bird is going through a hormonal period due to the mating season. Read on to discover some of the most common signs of hormonal behavior in birds, and how to cope until your pet’s behavior subsides.

Screaming

While all pet birds can be noisy, many owners note a dramatic increase in screaming and general vocalizations when their pets are going through a hormonal period. This is normal, and to be expected. Many owners find hormonal vocalizations to be the most off-putting part of dealing with their birds during mating season, but try to resist the urge to scold your bird for being louder than usual. Doing so will likely only encourage the behavior. Your best bet is to invest in a good pair of earplugs and attempt to ignore your bird’s screams until mating season subsides. If you feel like the screaming has become a habit that has outlasted your bird’s hormonal surges, then consult with a behavior specialist for ideas on how to calm your noisy pet.

Biting

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Manuela Schewe-Behnisch / EyeEm / Getty Images

One of the surest signs of hormonal behavior is when a normally tame and sweet bird suddenly starts trying to bite. Often referred to as “bluffing,” this sort of display, all too often, is the reason that many bird owners cite for surrendering their parrots to shelters and rescues. It can be quite frightening (and painful) for owners to deal with the biting stage of hormonal behavior, but take heart–it will pass with time. Since birds can’t be spayed and neutered like other pets such as cats and dogs, it is normal for them to lash out when trying to cope with sexual frustration. The best way to deal with biting behavior is to work around it the best you can, without sacrificing time that you would normally spend bonding with your pet.

Territoriality

If your bird seems more territorial than usual, then that can also be a strong sign that his or her hormones are coming into play as well. A hormonal bird may become very possessive over their cage, food, toys, or even their favorite human until the mating season comes to an end. Once territoriality is recognized, it would behoove most bird owners to respect their pet’s mindset regarding what they are being possessive over, lest they risk being on the receiving end of a painful bite. If it seems that your bird’s territoriality issues are becoming a lasting problem outside of mating season (typically spring for most species), then you may want to consider contacting a Certified Parrot Behavior Consultant for help and advice on how to work through your bird’s problems.

Mating Displays

If your bird is going through a hormonal period, you may notice some awkward new ways in which the bird carries him or herself, or odd physical displays when the bird is interacting with you. These can include eye pinning, regurgitation, and displays such as wing flapping or tail fanning. For example, male Indian Ringneck Parakeets are known to perform a cute “bowing” display during mating season when they are attempting to woo a potential mate. Don’t be surprised if your bird attempts to “win you over” with displays such as this–to your bird, you are a flock-mate and an equal. Rather than feeling odd or disgusted when these sorts of behaviors are directed at you, attempt to feel honored that your bird is comfortable enough with you to see you as a potential mate. As with all hormonal behaviors, this too will pass in time.

Canker is the name used to describe the disease caused by a protozoan (one-celled) parasite, Trichomonas gallinae. It is seen mainly in budgerigars and pigeons and is very common in aviaries of these species or other species living with them. It is often fatal.

CAUSE

Trichomonas gallinae is a protozoan parasite that needs moisture to survive. In birds it lives in the crop and oesophagus, and in severe cases may infect other organs such as the liver. It is transmitted via the drinking water and seed, the requirement being the moisture. If dried out it dies rapidly, therefore a diagnosis is done by testing samples from live or recently dead birds.

CLINICAL SIGNS

The parasite causes irritation and ulceration of the crop wall, with a secondary bacterial infection often following. The signs seen relate to this effect. A common sign is vomiting (distinguished from regurgitation by the vomitus getting onto the top of the head while the bird shakes its head) and weight loss.

A post-mortem often shows yellowish, cheese-like deposits in the crop. The paste is easily seen under a microscope.

Some birds can be carriers and show no signs even after several years of infection. The amount of Trichomonads seen on a wet smear often correlates with the clinical signs.

TREATMENT

Birds can be treated with Ronidazole (Ronnivet-S) in the water for seven days. It has a wide safety margin. Regular re-treatments are advised.

Pigeons can be treated in a single dose of Carnidazole (Spartrix) and Metronidazole (Flagyl), has been also used in the past orally for 2-10 days. All of these drugs are prescription only, not for sale over the counter.

PREVENTION

Prevention is much better than treatment. It consists of:
1. Hygiene – thorough scrubbing of water and feed dishes, and allow them to dry.
2. Quarantine – isolate new birds and treat them as above as a preventative measure after initial testing.
3. Treat all birds prior to breeding season.

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A healthy diet is key to keeping a pet bird healthy. And if that bird happens to be the most active, playful, and overly-energetic Caique, he surely needs a diet that can keep him recharged all the time.

A Caique has a very active metabolism, courtesy, his high-energy movements, and never-ending gimmicks all day. And to fuel, his body, a perfectly balanced and healthy diet is a must. So, without much ado, let’s jump onto the list one needs, to serve his Caique the best and most suitable food.

Fruits

Apart from being a dietary essential, fruits are a delectable item from the whole of the parrot’s diet. And Caiques also find fresh fruits tastier than their greens, pellets, and seeds.

Fruits can be served in many ways to a Caique. The owner needs to find the best form of feeding them to his parrot. Dice them in small cubes if the bird finds it difficult to pick and eat.

While choosing the fruits, dark fruits like mango, pineapple, or papaya have the best concentration of nutrients. Other fruits that interest a Caique’s palette are apple, banana, orange, peaches, apricots, plums, passionfruit, strawberries, pomegranate, tomatoes, and blueberries.

But that doesn’t mean that all fruits are good for a Caique. Some fruits like grapes have quite high sugar content and should be served in small quantities. Dry fruits like raisins must be served sparingly and should be checked that they aren’t sulfured.

Also, care must be taken while serving certain fruits. Seeds must be removed from the fruits like apple, carefully before serving them to the Caique. The bird might choke on them. Fruits also go bad real quick. So any fruit kept for more than 24 hours must be thrown away as it might have got bacteria. Pitted fruits like avocado should never be served to a Caique as their toxicity can prove deadly for them.

Vegetables

Vegetables are another must-have of a Caique’s diet and are a source of great nutrition for him. The dark orange vegetables are a great source of Vitamin A for them. Serve them carrots, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, winter squash, or beetroot. And for their share of greens, Caiques love beet greens, watercress, lettuce, or carrot greens. Add their favorite broccoli and spinach that will fulfill their calcium needs too.

An important thing that needs consideration here is that to absorb calcium, Vitamin D3 is a must that can be taken in two ways; naturally through soaking in the sunlight or through supplements. So, the best way is to take the bird out in the mild sun for some time daily.

Seeds

Seeds are an important part of a bird’s diet and they should form a small part of it. Seeds like quinoa, amaranth, barley, or buckwheat are a great choice. But the seeds must either be cooked, sprouted, or simply soaked to be chewable for the bird. One can also serve them with lentils or beans to add a good amount of protein to the bird’s diet.

A helpful tip here would be to refrain from market-made seed mix as they not only lack vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, but they have added fat that can cause obesity. To make it worse, the packaged seed-mix contains preservatives and sulfur that are harmful to the Caique’s health.

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Pellets

Pellets should be roughly 50 to 70 percent of a Caique’s diet. It forms the most important ingredient of the bird’s diet. The aforesaid range must be strictly adhered to, for maintaining a balanced diet. They contain all the essential nutrients that the bird might be lacking in his daily dietary requirements. There are many good pellet mixes available in the market. One simply has to choose a high-quality brand.

Nuts are an important source of EFA (Essential Fatty Acids) and hence are vital to support brain and bodily functions. Walnuts, pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, almonds, etc. as the nuts have high-fat content, they must be served in very little quantities like a half walnut in a day. But the quantity can be increased during the breeding season as their calcium content will h the female bird to synthesize egg-shells without compromising calcium levels of her body.

Fresh Water

As they say, all life on earth needs water. Caique is undoubtedly one of them. Freshwater must be accessible for the bird at all the time. The owner must keep a clean water bowl to refill it with fresh water. And the water must be of drinkable quality, i.e., it should be free from impurities like lead, etc. For this, one can either boil the water and serve it after it has cooled down or simply use filtered water. In summers, make sure to keep a spare fresh water bowl so that if the previous bowl is emptied by the bird, he has a backup to stay hydrated.

What not to Feed a Caique?

Where there are many options to satisfy a Caique’s pellet, few foods must never be served to him. Foods that contain caffeine like chocolates are toxic to the bird. Alcohol or carbonated drinks must not be fed to him. All the pitted fruits like avocado, foods rich in oxalic acid like rhubarb, foods with sulfur content like onion, or foods rich in amatoxin like mushrooms, are all harmful to the bird and can be fatal in certain situations.

Wise Words

Diet decides any living being’s health. It can make or break his health depending on its quality and quantity. Where ensuring high quality of the diet is important, equally important is to oversee that there is no overdose of a particular nutrient. That simply disturbs the balance. A Caique’s diet is quite varied and one can do a lot more with it to keep his bird intrigued about his next meal. Many owners add an occasional egg, oyster shells, gravel, fish, etc. to treat their bird. Such not only adds variety but also adds calcium or essential fats. The key is to keep him healthy while keeping him happy.