Coccidia in pigeons
Other names: Coccidia، Green diarrhea
Symptoms
- Green watery diarrhea sometimes with blood, wasting, ruffled feathers
- More severe in young birds; adults are usually carriers with partial immunity
How it spreads
Sporulated oocysts in the droppings (need moisture and warmth) - damp floors.
Diagnosis
Fecal flotation (oocyst count/g); small numbers are normal.
Treatment
Anticoccidials under the veterinarian's supervision after a fecal examination proves a high burden (a few oocysts are normal). With sulfa drugs give vitamin B for 5 days. Doses are reference values from published veterinary sources for the veterinarian - not a prescription. Diagnosis, actual dose, weight and the withdrawal period before racing are under veterinary supervision.
Prevention
Dry floor (wire/slats), daily scraping, avoid spilled water.
Treatment and doses are decided by an avian vet after an exam; Zajel does not publish doses.