How to treat a budgerigar for ticks?

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How to treat a budgerigar for ticks? - briefly
Apply a veterinarian‑approved acaricide spray or dip according to the product instructions, isolate the bird, and clean the cage with a high‑temperature disinfectant. «Monitor the bird for irritation and repeat treatment after 7‑10 days to cover the mite life cycle».

How to treat a budgerigar for ticks? - in detail
Ticks on a budgerigar require prompt identification, safe removal, and appropriate medication to prevent secondary infections. Early detection reduces stress and minimizes damage to feathers and skin.
The following protocol ensures effective management:

Inspect the bird thoroughly, focusing on the head, neck, vent, and feather bases. Ticks appear as small, brown or black ovoid bodies attached to the skin.
Isolate the affected bird in a clean, well‑ventilated cage to prevent spread to companions.
Use fine‑pointed tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal tool. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull with steady, even pressure. Avoid squeezing the body to prevent pathogen release.
Disinfect the bite site with a dilute chlorhexidine solution (0.05 %); allow it to air‑dry before handling the bird again.
Administer an approved acaricide formulated for avian species. Options include:

Ivermectin oral suspension, dosage 0.2 mg/kg body weight, repeated after 7 days.
Selamectin topical solution, applied to the skin at the base of the neck, dosage 0.2 mg/kg, single application.

Monitor the bird for adverse reactions for at least 24 hours. Signs of toxicity include lethargy, loss of appetite, or respiratory distress. Seek veterinary assistance immediately if symptoms appear.
Conduct a follow‑up examination after 14 days to confirm complete eradication. Repeat treatment if any live ticks are observed.

Preventive measures reduce recurrence:

Maintain cage hygiene by cleaning perches, toys, and substrate weekly.
Replace bedding material regularly and avoid using straw or grass that may harbor parasites.
Implement a routine health check, including tick inspection, during each veterinary visit.
Consider a prophylactic dose of ivermectin or selamectin every 3 months, following veterinary guidance.

Consistent application of these steps eliminates tick infestations and safeguards the bird’s health.