Lead and zinc poisoning in canaries and finches

Cause: New galvanized cages, and wire, solder and toys containing lead or zinc · Type: Husbandry

Other names: Metal poisoning

Symptoms

• Regurgitation and diarrhea
• Weakness, loss of balance and seizures
• Thirst

How it spreads

Not contagious.

Diagnosis

A blood lead or zinc test (Merck).

Treatment

Per Merck: supportive treatment and chelating agents (Ca EDTA then DMSA) at the vet, and removing the source. (All under veterinary supervision.)

Prevention

Wash new galvanized cages with vinegar and a wire brush before use (breeders' practice), and use cages painted with a safe paint.

Season

Year-round

Treatment and doses are decided by an avian vet after an exam; Zajel does not publish doses.

Other diseases

• Egg binding
• Chronic egg laying
• Egg yolk peritonitis
• Cloacal prolapse
• Feather plucking
• Overgrown claws and beak
• Heatstroke / heat stress
• Cold stress in adult birds and chicks

Sources

• merckvetmanual.com
• KB (not web-verified this session): widely repeated aviculture/breeder consensus; treat with stated confidence