Vitamin B1 (thiamine) deficiency in falcons
Other names: B1 deficiency، Falls among the causes of 'sara'' among falconers (a general name for seizures)
Symptoms
- Tremor and loss of balance
- Convulsions resembling hypoglycaemia
- Weakness
Diagnosis
Dietary history + response to treatment.
First aid
If neurological signs appear (fits/convulsions/inability to stand): wrap the falcon in a towel with the wings folded and the legs back under the tail and the head out so it can breathe, and take it immediately to the veterinary hospital (SWFH).
Treatment
Thiamine by injection/orally as the vet directs. Treatment must be under the supervision of a veterinarian specialised in birds of prey; doses are determined by weight, species and examination results.
Prevention
Fresh food or frozen for a limited time, variety (quail, young chicks, clean pigeon), vitamin supplements as the vet directs.
Season
Summer (reliance on frozen food)
Treatment and doses are decided by an avian vet after an exam; Zajel does not publish doses.