Hello all,

 

If you have read my other post you will know that I have a sick budgie called Theo. He is eating and drinking normally (as well as bullying my other bird) but he is remaining fluffed up a lot of the time, tail bobbing, breathing hard and doesn't seem to be singing as much (if at all). The vet said it was a respiratory infection that wasn't that bad and put him on Baytril which I have been syringing into his mouth at great stress to the both of us. That was on monday but I have yet to see any difference in his condition.

 

How long does it take before birds show any response to antibiotics?

 

Also, I have had Theo 2 years and in all that time he has never tamed, learnt to play or even to sit in the correct posture at all. In fact he has always appeared fluffier than my other budgie, so much so that we refer to him as 'fluffy' for a nickname and has always had a 'hunched' appearence.

 

I phoned the vet again and the one that specialises in birds is away until tuesday. The lady on the phone said if their was no improvement then I may have to be referred to a specialist and there are none in London (I don't have a car). Has anyone got an advice on any of this?

 

Natalie

Antibiotics generally work very well for infections. On the other hand, it's very important that an avian vet diagnose the infection properly before giving them and give you the right dosage. Baytril should be given in a very VERY tiny dose for budgies or else there can be complications. I can't remember what the dosage is but I'll take a look after work today for you. One of my birds just came off it not long ago and is doing great.

 

But the most important thing is a proper diagnosis to begin with. If the antibiotics aren't working, there could be something going on other than an infection. If at all possible, get your budgie to an avian vet as soon as you can. These symptoms are very serious and the longer it takes to get a proper diagnosis, the harder it will be for your bird to recover from whatever is going on. An avian vet can run the proper tests to narrow this down to the true source of the problem.

 

If you budgie actually worsens while you're giving the medication I would advise that you stop giving it immediately and at least call the avian vet to see what they have to say.

Thanks for your help.

 

Theo has seen the avian vet now who took a sample from him and he has been diagnosed with a non-life-threatening pancreatic problem which I am to treat through medicine in his food.

 

I am very relieved!

Aw, that's fantastic to hear! Hopefully he'll make a speedy and complete recovery. Keep us updated please.

good to hear, keep us updated