Pigeons, while often associated with urban landscapes and park feedings, are susceptible to a variety of diseases that can impact their health and longevity. These ailments range from viral infections like Paramyxovirus to bacterial diseases such as Paratyphoid, and even parasitic issues like Canker or Worms. This discussion explores these common pigeon diseases, their causes, symptoms, and prevention strategies, offering valuable insights into maintaining the health of these feathered friends.
Key Takeaways
- Some of the most common diseases in pigeons include Paratyphoid, Paramyxovirus, Canker, Cocci, Worms, Adeno-Coli Syndrome, Ornithosis, and Candida.
- Paratyphoid is caused by unsanitary conditions and can be transmitted through contaminated feed or introducing sick pigeons into the loft.
- Paramyxovirus is a highly contagious viral disease that affects pigeons, causing respiratory and nervous system symptoms.
- Canker, also known as trichomoniasis, is caused by a flagellate and is characterized by the presence of a yellow cheesy substance in the mouth.
- Cocci, or coccidiosis, is caused by unsanitary loft conditions and picking around on the ground, leading to weight loss and slimy dark green droppings.
- Worms, including hair, round, and tape worms, can be a result of unsanitary conditions or letting pigeons pick around on the ground, causing weight loss and bad droppings.
- Ornithosis, also known as the Ornithosis complex, affects over 50% of young birds and is characterized by nasal secretions, decreased desire to fly, and respiratory symptoms.
- Adeno-Coli Syndrome affects young birds and is a combination of an Adeno-Virus and E-Coli bacteria, often accompanied by a Circo Virus.
- Candida is a mold and yeast infection of the crop and intestines, often caused by blind medicating and destroying healthy gut bacteria.
Paratyphoid
Paratyphoid is one of the most common diseases in pigeons, and it is caused by the Salmonella bacteria. It can occur due to unsanitary conditions in the loft or the contamination of feed by rodents. Introducing new pigeons into the loft without checking for disease can also lead to Paratyphoid. Symptoms of Paratyphoid include loss of condition and weight, green slimy droppings, swelling of the leg and wing joints, limping, infertile eggs, twisted neck (seldom), and one-eye blindness (seldom).
To prevent and treat Paratyphoid, it is important to maintain sanitary conditions in the loft and prevent rodent infestation. Before introducing new pigeons, it is recommended to isolate and observe them for five days and put them on preventive medication. Products such as Furaltadone, Colistine 5, Trimethoprim-Sulfa, Parastop, Pantrim, Para-Mix 1, and Sal-Bac Vaccine can be used for prevention and cure.
Paramyxovirus
Paramyxovirus, also known as PMV, is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects pigeons, doves, and other bird species. It can cause severe respiratory and nervous system symptoms in infected birds, leading to significant mortality rates. Paramyxovirus can be transmitted through respiratory secretions, feces, and direct contact with infected birds.
To prevent Paramyxovirus, it is recommended to vaccinate all birds at least once a year. Young birds should be vaccinated at 4 to 8 weeks of age, no later than 4 weeks before the young bird race season. Re-vaccination should be done 4 weeks before the breeding season. Once a pigeon has Paramyxovirus, there is very little that can be done, but treating with La-Sota has shown some success. Products such as PMV1 Vaccine and LaSota can be used for prevention or cure.
Canker
Canker, also known as trichomoniasis, is one of the most common diseases that affect pigeons. It is usually transmitted through drinking water or parents feeding their young. Canker is caused by a flagellate that lives on the mucous membranes of the throat and crop.
Symptoms of canker include a reduction in activity, ruffled feathers, loss of weight, increased water intake, diarrhea, and the presence of yellow cheesy deposits in the mouth. To treat canker, medications such as Ronidazole, Metronidazole, B.S., Ronidazole 10, Ronidazole 40, and Cure 5 can be used.
It is important to note that the information provided here is based on the sources available on the internet and may not be exhaustive. It is always recommended to consult with a veterinarian who specializes in avian health for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
