Food mold poisoning (aflatoxin) in parrots
Other names: Moldy peanuts
Symptoms
- Lethargy
- Liver enlargement and damage
- Weak immunity
- Bleeding
How it spreads
Grain and peanuts stored in humidity/heat.
Diagnosis
History and feed examination.
Treatment
Supportive under veterinary supervision. [Update 3] Merck: liver fibrosis and cirrhosis occur as a result of aflatoxin from improperly stored seeds and peanuts that are not "bird-grade".
Prevention
Buy clean grain, cool dry storage, do not use peanuts in poor-quality shells.
Treatment and doses are decided by an avian vet after an exam; Zajel does not publish doses.
Other diseases
- Heavy metal poisoning (lead/zinc)
- Teflon (PTFE) fume toxicity
- Avocado poisoning
- Household food toxins (chocolate/caffeine/salt/alcohol)
- Smoke and nicotine exposure