How should a pigeon be treated for ticks? - briefly
Remove attached ticks with fine‑tipped tweezers, pulling steadily until the mouthparts detach, then disinfect the bite site with a mild antiseptic. Apply a veterinary‑approved acaricide spray or oral medication according to the label dosage and monitor the bird for any signs of infection.
How should a pigeon be treated for ticks? - in detail
Ticks attach to pigeons primarily on the head, neck, and underwing areas, feeding on blood and transmitting pathogens. Prompt action reduces stress, prevents anemia, and minimizes disease risk.
Inspect the bird daily. Use a bright light and a fine-toothed comb to locate parasites. Record the number of ticks and their attachment sites to gauge infestation severity.
Removal procedure
- Secure the pigeon in a breathable cloth bag or on a padded surface to limit movement.
- Apply a pair of fine-tipped tweezers to the tick’s head, grasping as close to the skin as possible.
- Pull upward with steady, even pressure; avoid twisting to prevent mouth‑part retention.
- Place extracted ticks in a sealed container with alcohol for disposal.
- Clean the bite area with a mild antiseptic solution (e.g., diluted chlorhexidine).
Chemical control
- Choose an acaricide approved for avian use, such as ivermectin, selamectin, or a pyrethrin‑based spray.
- Follow label instructions for dosage: typically 0.2 mg/kg body weight for ivermectin administered orally, or a 0.5 ml spray per bird for topical products.
- Apply the medication in a well‑ventilated area, ensuring full coverage of feathered regions where ticks may hide.
- Observe the pigeon for 30 minutes after treatment for adverse reactions (e.g., respiratory distress, excessive drooling).
Environmental management
- Remove droppings, old feed, and nesting material that harbor tick larvae.
- Clean cages with a dilute bleach solution (1 % concentration) and rinse thoroughly.
- Rotate bedding weekly and dry it in sunlight to reduce humidity, a condition favorable to tick development.
- Treat the surrounding enclosure with a residual acaricide spray, reapplying according to product schedule (usually every 14 days).
Follow‑up
- Re‑examine the bird 48 hours post‑treatment; repeat manual removal if new ticks appear.
- Conduct a second chemical dose after 7 days to interrupt the life cycle.
- Maintain weekly inspections for at least one month to confirm eradication.
Consistent hygiene, accurate removal, and appropriate medication together provide an effective strategy for eliminating ticks from pigeons and preventing recurrence.