Itchy finch!

[Youngpilgrim]

Won't go into huge depth as typing on my phone and it's a bit awkward!

My pet society has been itching and scratching a lot over the last few days, making little "sneeze" type motions and rubbing his beak on his perch. Seems a bit depressed too. Haven't heard the "clicking" noise associated with air-sac mites so hoping it is not that.

Is there anything I can get him to help before going to a vet? Preferably something I could put in his water? He is VERY difficult to catch to use a spray.

[debbie276]

IF it is a mite of some sort you could use the S76 (Ivermectin) in your water. For lice or mites most usually use something like Avian Liquidator which is a good avian pyrethrum based insecticide.
If it is a respiratory infection you will need a different medication all together.
Good luck

[Youngpilgrim]

Definitely behaving more as though he has a skin irritation than any breathing difficulty. Thanks for the advice. Popping to the pet store soon (that deal in finches) so will see if I can find something suitable based on what you've mentioned.

[debbie276]

good luck, keep us posted

[L in Ontario]

Maybe he is just going into a moult. Do you give him a small bird bath occassionally?

[Youngpilgrim]

Yes, he has a small bird bath every day in fresh water.

I couldn't find anything in the shop to put in his water so I got a spray. Obviously, I need to avoid his eyes and beak but, at the same time, I am nervous to hold him in case I hurt him at all.

Is it possible to spray a thin mist on his feathers at a distance from behind without holding him, or is that too risky?

[Youngpilgrim]

I should add that I have just noticed a lot of feathers around his cage now I have come in from work. Perhaps it is just a moult? Will keep an eye out for any sore/bald spots in case.

[MistyCate]

My Society is doing much the same thing, although he seems to be in more respitory distress. He's gotten it before, where he tips his head back. but this time there is more cleaning, sudden ruffling of feathers and small feathers at bottom of cage, so I thought of mites.

But if I am already giving him Ornacycline/Tetracycline from Petsmart in his water for respitory help, should I not get something for air sac mites at the same time?

Please let me know if you have found something to help you bird! Thanks!

(P.s. I have a new bird in 2nd cage and he doesn't seem to have any symtoms yet. I will delay in puttin him in the main cage with the single bird, but should I give the Ornacycline/Tetracycline from Petsmart as a precaution?)