another question on scaley leg--mites

[skythrutrees]

I've just read that petroleum jelly can be used to get rid of the scales. Is this true? has anyone tried that? If i attempt that, is there anything I should know about the process?

I'd use the jelly in additon to Scalex I bought at the store...and yes, I'm still planning on going to the vet.

thanks in advance!

[Crystal]

I would avoid petroleum jelly in favor of using mineral oil. Mineral oil application is actually the recommended treatment for scaly legs caused by knemidokoptes mites (usually in conjunction with spot-on use of ivermectin); it is not only effective at treating the mites via suffocating them, but it will also help to soften the scales. The problem with petroleum jelly (which could also be a problem with oil if too much is applied) is that it can stick to the feathers and cause them to lose the ability to help the bird retain heat/thermoregulate. If repeated local application of mineral oil (just a tiny enough amount to lightly coat the legs) does not resolve the problem, you may want to consider other disease processes which can lead to the appearance of scaly legs: hyperkeratosis (often due to vitamin A deficiency), dermatomycoses (fungal infection), and possibly papilloma virus and poxvirus.

[Rue]

Hmm...I agree, no Vaseline! But I still think you need to treat systematcially for mites...just treating the legs isn't enough...plus, many birds hate the feeling of anything oily on them and then the oil itself causes problem...

[skythrutrees]

Hmmm. Thanks. I'll use the mineral oil (very small amount) instead. I have the appt made for Thursday, so I should know then what kind of problems the kids are having.

[Crystal]

Let us know what your vet thinks! :) Hopefully none of your birds has anything too serious.