Description
Salmonellosis in companion birds is caused by enterobacteria of the Typhi-murium species (paratyphoid). At the AUTH Avian Pathology Clinic, between 1990 and 1999, 618 pigeons, 182 canaries, and 71 psittacines from the wider Thessaloniki area were examined. According to bacteriological test results, salmonella was isolated in 53 of the 618 pigeons (8.6%), 33 of the 182 canaries (18.1%), and 2 of the 71 psittacines (2.8%).
In companion birds, salmonella is primarily transmitted through the digestive tract. Consumption of food or water contaminated by mice, flies, or other insects and parasites is the most significant cause. Wild birds and pigeons are also known to be carriers of the bacteria. Many salmonella epidemics occur in outdoor pigeon and companion bird aviaries. Infection easily passes from female birds to their eggs. Additionally, eggs can become contaminated after hatching from infected droppings, leading to the disease. Pet bird owners should also observe hygiene rules, as they can often infect their own birds.
Salmonella can cause high morbidity and significant mortality in companion birds. Diagnosis is difficult because many other diseases cause similar symptoms. These include reduced vitality, the bird usually stops eating, and severe diarrhea. Eye infection is sometimes observed. These acute cases often result in the death of the birds. Mortality can reach up to 100%, especially in young birds.
In other cases, the disease manifests gradually (chronic form). In these cases, symptoms related to the central nervous system are observed. These symptoms are due to salmonella entering the bloodstream and settling in the brain, spinal cord, and other body organs. They are often found in the birds’ joints, causing arthritis and lameness, especially in pigeons. Birds that recover become carriers and continuously shed bacteria through their droppings or secretions, thus infecting other birds. Due to transmission through droppings, humans are also often exposed to the risk of infection.
The best approach to treating salmonellosis is prevention, by keeping birds in good hygienic condition, with clean food and frequent disinfection of cages and aviaries. All food intended for birds should be stored away from mice, flies, and insects.
In outdoor aviaries or pigeon lofts, visits from wild birds or pigeons should be avoided, as they may be salmonella carriers. All new birds introduced into the flock should be free of and tested for salmonella. Any bird that tests positive in cultures, either during quarantine or annual laboratory tests, should be treated or removed from the flock. These birds should not be sold under any circumstances, unless the buyer is fully informed of the risks involved.
To diagnose salmonella, the bacterium must be isolated and identified, and then an antibiogram must be performed to confirm if the administered antibiotic will indeed treat the infection. Salmonella began to show antibiotic resistance many years ago. In a study that examined (in vitro) the resistance of 241 salmonella strains to 9 antibacterial substances, it was found that the resistance of the microbes to 7 of them ranged from 25% to 80%!
To help combat diseases like Salmonella, Evia Parrots designed Intestinal Formula 1 and Intestinal Formula 2. Evia Parrots’ new health care products contain herbal extracts such as garlic, oregano, thyme, mint, and cinnamon, combined with amino acids, vitamins, minerals, trace elements, fatty acids, and monosaccharides.
Allicin, found in garlic, helps inhibit the colonization of microorganisms like Salmonella (BioVet. No1 November 1996). Oregano extract shows strong antibacterial activity against Salmonella typhimurium (Sivropoulou et al. 1997). Thyme, mint, and cinnamon extracts exhibit anti-diarrheal properties.
Essential amino acids strengthen the body and aid in bird recovery, preventing ‘carina’ (wasting). Vitamin E, selenium, and vitamin C boost the immune system against salmonella bacterial attacks. Vitamins A and K protect the intestinal mucosa, preventing internal bleeding from inflammation caused by bacteria. Fatty acids lower intestinal pH, inhibit pathogenic bacteria, and promote the growth of beneficial microorganisms in the birds’ digestive system, at the expense of pathogens like salmonella. Finally, dextrose provides immediate heat and energy for rapid body recovery.
The powerful pharmacodynamic, immunostimulating, and supportive action of Evia Parrots’ new active formulations provide a shield against salmonella bacteria, without the risk of developing resistance.
DOSAGE:
Preventive dosage: 2 drops per 100ml of water, 2-3 times a week.
Treatment dosage: 4 drops per 100ml of water, daily until symptoms subside.

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