One of the hottest topics in avian medicine
and in aviculture in the last few years
has been zinc toxicosis. Heavy metal poisonings
have long been seen as a problem in veterinary
medicine. The most common type is lead poisoning.
In recent years, however, diagnosis of zinc
toxicosis has been on the rise.
What Causes Zinc Toxicosis This is primarily
an environmental problem. Several different
etiologies have been determined for zinc
poisoning. One of the first causes described
by veterinarians was termed "New Cage
Syndrome". Veterinarians recognized
that some birds would exhibit symptoms resembling
heavy metal toxicity soon after being placed
in new, galvanized wire cages. Zinc is one
of the main elements found in galvanized
coatings. Birds will lick the wire or accidentally
ingest zinc when using their beak to climb
the cage wire. Other potential sources of
zinc include: ¥ Bolts, nuts, screws,
quick links, and other hardware. ¥ Chains
and other metals.¥ Some paints will
contain zinc. ¥ Keys
Manufacturers have become more aware of
this problem and are now offering safe alternatives
such as stainless steel chain and quick
links. You may want to contact the manufacturer
to determine the zinc contact in questionable
sources. California Cage Company and For
The Birds acrylic toys are two companies
that provide a written guarantee on zinc-free
products. You can also replace the quick
links on toys with stainless steel quick
links. The pear shaped links on smaller
bird toys are nickel plated and do not pose
a hazard. Generally, a shiny, polished finish
on metals will be safe and zinc-free.
Researchers, avian veterinarians, aviculturists,
and pet bird owners are working together
to gather information that will be useful
in the prevention and treatment of zinc
toxicosis. Zinc toxicosis has been a major
topic at the Association of Avian Veterinarians
Annual Conference for the last three years
in an effort to keep avian veterinarians
trained and informed about this potentially
fatal problem.
Zinc toxicosis can present as a diagnostic
challenge. Veterinarians rely heavily on
the historical information that owners provide.
Clinical signs will vary slightly with each
case. Symptoms to be aware of include weakness,
depression, polyuria, polydypsia, diarrhea,
weight loss, hematuria, and seizures. If
you suspect that your bird has ingested
a toxin, or if your bird exhibits any of
these symptoms you must call your avian
veterinarian immediately for recommendations
and instructions.
Diagnosis and Treatment Assays are available
to measure the level of zinc in the blood
stream. An elevated level of zinc is diagnostic
for zinc toxicosis. Oral medications developed
for lead poisoning in children has been
clinically effective in treating zinc intoxication.
Treatment is rewarding because recovery
is often rapid and dramatic.
Removing the zinc from the bird is the
first life saving step when treating for
zinc toxicosis. However, you must take steps
to correct the environment to prevent further
exposure.
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