Steve Hutchings Budgie Site

External Parasites

Ectoparasites are common in all birds. They can range from a variety of mites, which live off or on the bird, to ticks and lice. These can cause considerable irritation and lead to feather loss.

There are a variety of treatments available, including sprays or powders, however these contain products that can have potential side effects if over dosed; for this reason there is a trend to try and avoid these products.

The use of ivermectin gives a set level of drug for up to fourteen days. Sprays or other topical formulations may only last for up to 24 hours. Therefore the most effective and convenient treatment is "Ivomec" administered as suggested below.

Ivermection; trade name " Ivomec". This is a cattle pour on and must be diluted down as over dosage can lead to death. it is applied to the bird's skin on the back of the neck. In some cases a repeat treatment is needed. A dropper bottle containing enough for over 200 small birds is £3.25. By law you may only obtain ivermectin from a veterinary Surgeon.

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