Psitticine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD)
posted by Dr. Deb on September 3rd, 2009 in Birds
PBFD is a devastating disease of many species of birds caused by a virus called “circovirus”. The disease may be silent for some time before early signs such as poor plumage, broken feathersand lack of powder down are detectable. Over time, the disease causes destruction of feathers, damaged beak and nails. Ultimately, affected birds’ appetites drop off and wasting occurs.
While there is no effective cure for this disease at this time, birds can be treated with nutritional supplements and supportive medications for some time to allow them to feel good (although they may look pretty tragic, as “Magnolia”, a very happy, outgoing victim of PBFD pictured above).
It is only recently that the cause of PBFD has been discovered, but with the discovery of the cause, there is now a blood test that can be run to check whether a bird is carrying the virus!
Even though there is no cure, knowing whether your bird has this disease, even if he appears healthy has value. Healthy appearing birds as likely to shed the virus to other birds, so it important to keep “silent carriers” away from other birds (pet and wild birds). Also, knowing that the virus is present allows the bird owner to remain vigilant for signs so that appropriate medical/ comfort care can be instituted right away as it is easy to mistake early signs for “innocent” feather plucking.
SIck birds should always be tested for PBFD, in addition to a Chemistry screen, CBC, and other infectious diseases to determine what treatment is most reasonable and effective.
Dr. Carolyn Wulf, Director of The Avian Center at Cimarron recommends testing all new birds, especially before introducing to any birds already in a home. Also, she recommends knowing the PBFD status of all birds in the home before introducing anyone new so as to prevent spread of the virus. Breeding birds must be tested to avoid spread to chicks, poor hatching and reproductive problems. Once your healthy pet’s status is known, further testing is unnecessary unless your bird has an outdoor aviary where she might come in contact with wild birds, who can also carry the disease (pigeons are notorious silent carriers).
Contact the Avian Center at Cimarron today for more information or to schedule a Wellness check and PBFD test for your feathered friend!
