Coccidiosis in Chukars
Several dead and dying chukars were referred to the Heeke
ADDL by the practitioner due to limited response to treatment.
Initially, the birds received a 4-day treatment of Baytril,
and sulfadimethoxine for 1 day. Mortality was reduced, but
lab findings included coccidiosis. Resumption of coccidiosis
treatment for 4 days resolved the problem. In addition, the
use of a gram positive antibacterial reduced secondary losses
to clostridial enteritis. For game bird raisers, the dilemma
of raising birds on wire with little disease (but primary
feather damage) or raising birds on litter with enteric bacteria
and protozoa without cleared pharmaceuticals remains quite
real. The local practitioner can be a real help in meeting
the needs of this clientele.
-by Tom Bryan, DVM, MS,
Avian
Diagnostician, Heeke ADDL
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