What Are the Symptoms That Indicate a Pigeon Is Sick?
There are certain symptoms that show you that a pigeon is sick. Identifying these symptoms can help you save the life of the pigeon and at the same time, it will also fill you with a sense of satisfaction and inner peace. Pigeons can be affected by different diseases and so it is important to recognize the symptoms so that you are able to take care of the situation well and get the bird out of trouble in time. Here is a brief look at some common symptoms of a sick pigeon.
Paratyphoid
This is a disease that affects pigeons and is normally caused when the bird is exposed to unsanitary conditions. For example, if its feed is contaminated, then there is high risk the pigeon may develop this disease. Even pigeons living in a loft can develop the diseases. The symptoms of this disease include loss of weight in the pigeon, swelling of their limbs and joints of the wings. A twisted neck and slimy droppings of green feces as well as limping are other symptoms that indicate the pigeon is suffering from paratyphoid.
Paramyxovirus
This is another disease affecting pigeons. To prevent pigeons from contracting this disease, it is important to vaccinate them once every year. Young pigeons should be vaccinated at the age of between four and eight weeks. Another time to vaccinate the pigeon is before it enters the breeding season. Common symptoms of this disease are weight loss, parastop, slimy droppings that are green in color and neck and head in a twisted position.
Canker
If a pigeon develops this disease, it will develop a yellow colored and cheesy substance in its mouth. In some cases, the disease can also be external and the disease affects pigeons of all ages. Mostly, it occurs when the throat mucous membrane of the pigeon has a growth of flagellate. Common symptoms include problems with digestion and loss of appetite.
Ornithosis
This is a disease that affects a large number of pigeons. When a pigeon develops this disease, it will lose its desire to fly and will suffer from other complications and problems. Common symptoms of this disease are wet eyes and swelling in the eye lids. Other symptoms include reduction in the desire to fly and secretions from the nose. Pigeons affected by this disease will also start to scratch their beaks and heads. They will also develop slime in their throats and will cough, rattle and sneeze. Finally, they will suffer from discolored wattles.
The above-mentioned diseases are the most common diseases affecting pigeons. If you notice any of the above-mentioned symptoms, you should take quick and prompt action and keep in mind the earlier the symptoms are identified, the easier it becomes to save the life of the pigeon.
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