Teflon (PTFE) fume toxicity in parrots
Other names: Teflon poisoning، Frying pan poisoning
Symptoms
- Often sudden death
- Difficulty breathing and wheezing
- Incoordination and seizures
How it spreads
Inhalation; birds near the kitchen are most exposed.
Diagnosis
History.
Treatment
Oxygen in a warm incubator, fluids, anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, diuretic; the prognosis is guarded.
Prevention
No birds in or near the kitchen; avoid heated Teflon cookware, coated irons, self-cleaning heaters and ovens; ventilation. Also: air fresheners, candles, incense, burnt plastic.
Treatment and doses are decided by an avian vet after an exam; Zajel does not publish doses.
Other diseases
- Heavy metal poisoning (lead/zinc)
- Avocado poisoning
- Household food toxins (chocolate/caffeine/salt/alcohol)
- Smoke and nicotine exposure
- Food mold poisoning (aflatoxin)