Can anyone tell me what conures need to be tested for and/or what vaccinations they need?

Question

I've had my little guy for around 2 1/2 years now. When I first got him I took him to the vet for an initial "check up;" however, they didn't run any tests. What should I have him tested for to make sure he is completely healthy? Aside from getting his nails trimmed every couple of months or so I only take him for a health check up once a year (which I read was normal unless there is a change in behavior, dropping, or something of that nature.) Is there anything he should get vaccinated for?

Answer 1

Normally, birds, except for larger ones like cockatoos, do not need to be tested or vaccinated for anything.  Cockatoos normally get vaccines for beak and feather disease.  Smaller birds can get vaccines for Pacheco's disease and pox virus, but since the chance of your bird getting something like this is extremely low, most vets do not give it. It is not necessary to take your bird to the vet unless you think he is ill. Birds don't have to have check up like dogs and cats.  Please read my profile.

Answer 2

your avian vet should do blood checks once a year to make sure the bird is healthy . I would suggest an avian vet and they will take care of what the bird needs .  

Answer 3

Annual health exams for mine include oral and fecal cultures for bacteria and fungus.  Cultures should be fully grown out, usually for a couple of weeks.  Most bacteria will grow out in 72 hours but some will not.  Fungal cultures will frequently not grow out for well over 72 hours.  I also have a CBC done and if possible, a full blood chem profile.  (With small birds there may not be enough blood drawn for a full chem profile.)  A new bird will also be PCR tested for Polyoma, PBFD and Chlamydia.  

Vaccinations are something you want to discuss with your avian vet.  There are currently vaccinations available for Polyoma and Pacheco's Disease and I understand a vaccination for PBFD is being tested in other countries though unfortunately may not be available in the US.  

Researchers have just recently found a virus that appears to be connected to (if not causative of) PDD and are working on a vaccination which may (or may not) be available at a later time.

Hope this helps,

Colette

ParrotletsPlus

http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/Parro...