Lice and Worm Infestations

Internal and external parasites are a common occurence in all birds, including aviary kept and companion pets. Quite often overlooked by pet owners, regular worm, lice and mite treatments must be administered and it's very easy and inexpensive to do.
Worms:
Roundworm, Hairworm, Tapeworm, Caecal worm, Thread worm, Hook worm, Gape worm, gizzard worm...worms worms and more worms! There are products available from your local pet supply store that will cover the lot. We use "Vetafarm ~ Wormout gel" four times per year (not during breeding).
Regardless of which brand you choose, simply follow the directions on the bottle. Most can be administered directly into the crop, however, this takes an experienced person to perform. The other method of adding into drinking water is equally effective provided all wet foods and other water supply is removed from the aviary.
Lice and Mites:
Mites and lice are bloodsucking, this can cause intense irritation and anemia. Chewed or damaged feathers are often a sign of feather mites. There are a range of products available to control lice and mites. We use a lice and mite spray. I catch my birds and place them in a smaller cage. Hold the spray around 30cm from the bird and spray, avoiding the eyes. I try and do this during the morning on a warm day. All nest boxes, bird tents, cages etc, will need to be treated as well. Always follow the directions on the bottle of each product.