Keeping birds in our home environment presents us with many challenges. Insuring the safety and well-being of our feathered friends is a large responsibility and one that is taken seriously by many of those that enjoy keeping birds as pets. Keep in mind that our homes are not a natural environment for birds and in many ways can be very hostile to them. To keep them from harm one should always monitor their birds when they are out of their cages.

The following excerpts are from The Complete Bird Owner's Handbook, Gary A. Gallerstein D.V.M. , Howell Book House, 1994. This excellent book covers all aspects of bird care and health that is essential for both the pet bird owner and avian professional. We wish to thank the author for the permission to present this material to you. Net Pets hopes that you will find Dr. Gallerstein's information as an exceptional reference source in helping to provide a safe environment for your birds.

Poisoning

Route of Poisoning

Ingestion (by mouth)
Inhalation (by breathing)
Topical (Contact with skin)

Suspect poisoning if your bird is sick and you observe:

• Contact with a known poisonous substance, including chewing or playing with the packaging, exposure to fumes or odors.

• Opened or spilled containers of any poisonous substance

• Toxic plants recently chewed on

• A foreign substance noted on the feathers

Signs To Watch For

• Sudden onset of regurgitation, diarrhea, coughing, breathing problems, and/or depression
• Bloody droppings

• Redness or burns around the mouth

• Convulsions

• Paralysis

• Shock

First Aid For Poisoning

1. Remove the poison to prevent further ingestion.

2. For eye contact, flush the eye with lukewarm water. For skin contact, flush the area with water. For fume intoxication, ventilate the room immediately - open windows, use a fan, or better yet, remove the bird from the area altogether.

3. Call your veterinarian.

• Bring a sample of the poison and its packaging.

• Bring a sample of the bird's most recent droppings.

• Provide general supportive care.

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