Mycosis refers to diseases caused by a microscopic fungus and can affect any animal. Many times, these mycoses attack when the immune system has low defenses, so it is important to have our animals well cared for, fed and hygienic.
There are many types of fungal infections and they can affect the respiratory, digestive or other tracts, so you should observe your bird to try to understand where the problem comes from. In this article on our site we are going to explain the most common types of fungal infections in birds, although if you suspect that your bird has been attacked by a fungus, you should go to the vet to evaluate it and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
Feather mites
The parasite syrongophilus bicectinata causes them and causes the feathers to fall excessively. The bird takes on a disheveled appearance and, on many occasions, can have wounds on its skin.
The veterinarian is the one who will recommend the most appropriate treatment, but a spray acaricide is usually used on the affected areas, usually during 10 days. It is important to thoroughly clean the cage with bleach to eliminate all fungi and let it dry until the odor is eliminated.
Dematomycosis
This is a skin condition caused by the fungus trichophyton or microsporum and produces a scaling of the skin, it gives the sensation that the bird had dandruff. It is a very contagious disease and causes the feathers to fall out quickly. To treat it, we recommend a ketoconazole cream and use gloves when applying it to the bird, as it can also spread to humans.
Apergillosis
It is a type of fungus that can be spread by respiratory or digestive tract There are several types of aspergillosis and the most common is the one that It causes infection in the respiratory tract, although it can also affect the eyes or visceral organs. The animal will have breathing difficulties, diarrhea and even seizures.
The fungus that causes this infection can be in spores in the air or in contaminated food. It usually occurs more in chicks than in adult birds. Treatment is less effective the more time passes, antibiotics and antifungals are recommended
Intestinal mucormycosis
This type of mycosis attacks the abdominal lymphatic system and can end up being a chronic problem if not treated in time. Birds have diarrhea and it is sometimes confused with another illness. However, if not treated in time, it can affect the bird's growth and cause problems with its plumage. It is usually recommended to treat it with water-soluble antifungals, such as sodium propionate.
Thrush
This is a mycosis in birds that affects the upper digestive tract. In the throat you will see some white wounds. It can appear after prolonged treatment with antibiotics, some intestinal diseases or contaminated food.
It can be treated with a antifungal cream of the Micostatin type, although, as on all previous occasions, the vet will be the best person to help you advise.
