How to treat a tracheal mite? - briefly
Administer a veterinary‑approved acaricide such as ivermectin (or selamectin) orally or in the drinking water, following the label dosage and repeating after 7–10 days to interrupt the mite life cycle. Simultaneously clean and disinfect housing, replace litter, and treat all birds in the flock to prevent reinfestation.
How to treat a tracheal mite? - in detail
Tracheal mite infestations in birds require a systematic approach: accurate diagnosis, targeted medication, environmental sanitation, and ongoing monitoring.
Diagnosis begins with clinical observation of respiratory distress, wheezing, or nasal discharge. Microscopic examination of tracheal swabs confirms the presence of adult mites, nymphs, or eggs. Quantifying parasite load guides treatment intensity.
Medication protocols rely on acaricides proven effective against respiratory parasites. Commonly used agents include:
- Ivermectin: 0.2 mg/kg administered orally or subcutaneously, repeated after 7 days to cover the mite’s life cycle.
- Toltrazuril: 10 mg/kg orally, single dose, effective for both adult mites and developing stages.
- Levamisole: 5 mg/kg orally, two doses 48 hours apart, useful when resistance to macrocyclic lactones is suspected.
Dosage adjustments may be necessary for species with known sensitivity, such as psittacines or raptors. All medications should be administered under veterinary supervision to avoid toxicity.
Environmental control eliminates reinfestation sources. Steps include:
- Thorough cleaning of cages, perches, and feeding equipment with a 1 % bleach solution followed by rinsing.
- Replacement of bedding material with sterile, disposable options.
- Implementation of a quarantine period for new birds, during which prophylactic treatment and diagnostic testing are performed.
Supportive care mitigates respiratory compromise. Provide humidified air, ensure adequate ventilation, and monitor oxygen saturation. Nutritional supplementation with vitamins A and E supports mucosal healing.
Post‑treatment evaluation involves repeat tracheal swabs at 14‑day intervals for three consecutive checks. Absence of mites confirms eradication; any residual detection warrants a repeat medication cycle.
Preventive measures consist of regular health screenings, routine deworming schedules, and strict biosecurity protocols to limit exposure to infected birds or contaminated equipment.