Just like humans, parakeets can get ill too. There are number of diseases and illnesses that a parakeet can contract for a number of reasons. If you suspect your parakeet has a disease or illness don't wait to contact a vet. They are the first line of defence from any illness. The illnesses and diseases talked about are here for informational purposes ONLY. Do not use it to diagnosis, treat or help your parakeet. Seek a vet's care immediately if you suspect they have any of these illnesses or diseases.
Tumors: Sadly tumors are very common in parakeets. The rapid metabolism of the parakeets allows the tumors to grow at a rapid rate and can seem to grow overnight. Wing joints, the rump area and vent areas are all common external areas for tumors. Internal tumors can include kidney, fatty, adrenal, ovarian, testicular and other types of tumors. Some researchers believe that tumors are a result of mismatched breeding over the years with parakeets but this is not confirmed by any substantial research.
Polyoma Virus: Otherwise known as the Parakeet Fledgling Disease. This is usually found in small chick parakeets compared to the mature parakeets. A vaccine has been invented to prevent this type of disease, but it is very costly and not always effective. The Polyoma virus is a very harsh disease and will cause the internal organs of the parakeet to die and cause the death of the parakeet due to dehydration or starvation.
Psittacosis: It's known as the Parrot Fever. This can be carried by a number of parakeets. This is usually contracted by the sharing of water or food from an infected bird or by the respitory system where the parakeet inhales dirt, dust or other particles that could contain this disease.
The symptoms of Parrot Fever are too great to list here but mostly include the respitory system or the digestive system. Symptoms will also vary depending upon the age of the bird, sex of the parakeet, diet and breeding.
If you suspect that the parakeet has Psittacosis isolate the parakeet immediately. Clean the cages and everything inside out thoroughly. It might be a good idea to wear a mask while doing so. Psittacosis IS transferable to humans and can result in flu like symptoms in humans.
Cnemodocptes Mites: This is talked about in the Foot Problems page. These mites cause the crustation and infection of the feet or face area. The mites burrow into the skin causing a number of problems for the parakeets. See the foot problem page for more information on treatments and symptoms of this disease.
Remember that any parakeet can get a disease but there are a number of steps that can ensure that the parakeet is kept safe. Clean the cages regularly. Keep the parakeet's diet regular and filled with vitamins. And most importantly keep an eye on the parakeet and pay attention for any unusual signs from the parakeet. It is natural for the parakeet to try and mask the signs of any illness so paying close attention to the parakeet is the only way to track an illness or disease.
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