Did you know that like all other animals, parrots can also become infected by parasites? Gastrointestinal parasites can cause a multitude of problems in a bird’s stomach and intestines and can also affect the function of the bird’s other organs.
Gastrointestinal parasites can cause weight loss, depression, loss of appetite and in severe cases can even lead to death. The presence of intestinal worms can be diagnosed by your avian veterinarian who will perform a faecal exam, looking for parasite eggs.
Although gastrointestinal parasites are more common in wild birds, companion birds can be exposed to parasites by direct contact from other infected birds and indirect contact from parasite carriers.
Birds that are housed outdoors are more susceptible to parasites because of their increased risk of exposure. However, birds who are housed indoors with no direct contact with outside birds can also be infected. Faeces from wild birds may contain worm eggs. If your parrot ingests these worm eggs they can hatch in your parrot’s digestive tract. If you provide your bird with natural tree branches and plant material, it is possible that faeces from wild birds will make its’ way in to your parrot’s cage. Your bird can inadvertently consume the contaminated faeces while playing in their cage.
It is important that you thoroughly clean your parrot’s cage on a regular basis by taking the cage outside and hosing it down thoroughly to remove all faecal matter. If this is not done, your parrot can quickly become re-infected with worms via their own droppings.
You can prevent a gastrointestinal parasite from infecting your bird, by regularly worming your bird. If you are seeking a bird wormer for your bird, Parrotbox Pet Supplies recommends Vetafarm Wormout Gel. Vetafarm Wormout Gel is a water soluble bird wormer for use in water or given directly to the bird via crop needle. Vetafarm Wormout Gel effectively kills all intestinal worms including roundworm, hookworm, caecal worm, thread worm, and tapeworm. Parrotbox Pet Supplies sells Vetafarm Wormout Gel in 50ml and 100ml sizes. To purchase Vetafarm Wormout Gel click here: https://www.parrotbox.com.au/collections/first-aid/products/vetafarm-wormout-gel-50ml
Please consult with your local avian veterinarian If you suspect your bird is ill and/or suffering from a gastrointestinal parasitic infection.