How to treat tracheal mite in a cockatiel? - briefly
Administer a veterinarian‑prescribed anti‑mite medication such as aerosolized ivermectin or selamectin, and keep the bird isolated with rigorous cage sanitation. Provide humidified air and monitor respiratory function throughout treatment.
How to treat tracheal mite in a cockatiel? - in detail
Tracheal mite infection in a cockatiel presents with coughing, wheezing, and occasional nasal discharge. The parasite attaches to the mucosal lining of the trachea, causing irritation and secondary bacterial complications. Early recognition prevents progression to severe respiratory distress.
Diagnosis requires a combination of clinical observation and laboratory confirmation. Visual inspection of the oral cavity may reveal mucus strands containing the mite. Endoscopic examination of the airway provides direct visualization. Laboratory analysis of tracheal swabs, stained and examined under microscopy, identifies the organism «Trichomonas».
Treatment involves pharmacological intervention, environmental management, and supportive care. The primary medication is an antiparasitic agent administered systemically. Additional measures reduce pathogen load and promote recovery.
- Ivermectin: oral dose of 0.2 mg/kg once daily for three consecutive days.
- Metronidazole: oral dose of 25 mg/kg twice daily for ten days, targeting secondary bacterial infection.
- Flubendazole: oral dose of 0.5 mg/kg once daily for five days, alternative for ivermectin‑intolerant birds.
Dosage must be calculated based on the bird’s exact body weight. Tablets can be crushed and mixed with a small amount of soft food to ensure complete ingestion. Syringe administration of liquid formulations provides precise dosing. Monitor for adverse reactions such as lethargy or gastrointestinal upset; adjust treatment if side effects appear.
Supportive care includes humidified air to ease breathing, isolation from other birds to prevent transmission, and regular cleaning of cages, perches, and feeding dishes. Supplementation with vitamin A and electrolytes supports mucosal healing. Hydration should be maintained through fresh water and, if necessary, supplemental syringes.
Follow‑up evaluation occurs one week after completing therapy. Repeat tracheal swabs confirm eradication; absence of mites indicates successful treatment. Preventive strategies involve routine health checks, quarantine of new birds, and maintaining low humidity levels that discourage mite proliferation. Regular sanitation and avoidance of overcrowding reduce the risk of recurrence.