Oral Canker (Avian Trichomonosis) is caused by a protozoan parasite (trichomonas gallinae) commonly found in pigeons and doves.
Oral Canker
- Affected Anatomy: Beak, Mouth
- Symptoms: Difficulty Swallowing, Plaque
Symptoms
- Yellow cheese-like plaques on the roof of the mouth, inside the beak and sometimes spreading to the oesophagus (Figure 1).
- Birds may have difficulty swallowing.
- Food and water intake may drop.
- Lethargy and weight loss may be noticed.
- Birds may have difficulty closing their beaks (Figure 2).
Causes
- The Trichomonas protozoa is extremely common in wild pigeons and doves with 80-90% being carriers.
- Pigeons feeding or drinking from hen feeders easily spreads the parasite.
Prevention
- Do not allow hens to drink from the same water source as pigeons and doves, this is the main way that Trichomonas is spread.
- Restrict wild bird access to feeding areas.
- Routinely clean feeders and drinkers.
Guidance
Note that this home remedy is not intended to offer a cure or replace veterinary treatment, but may alleviate symptoms where no professional support is easily available. The suggestions are based on experience gained with our own hens.
There is no currently authorised treatment in the UK due to concerns regarding potential carcinogenic properties of Metronidazole. (BSAVA Manual of Backyard Poultry Medicine and Surgery)
- Isolate the bird and provide easy access to food and water.
- You will need to seek veterinary advice for an appropriate treatment.
- Home remedies include:
- Garlic extract – 200mg/kg body weight daily.
- Apple Cider vinegar in drinking water may help (15ml per 4 litres monthly).
- Copper sulphate (see below)
Copper Sulphate
This powder contains copper sulphate and acidifier and is used for different purposes in the dairy and poultry industry. It can be used as an antifungal treatment for sour crop and also for Trichomoniasis (oral canker).
The suggested quantity, as confirmed by our poultry vet, is to add 1g per 3-5 litres of drinking water and 3ml apple cider vinegar. Make it up fresh on a daily basis and feed ad lib as drinking water. Please note, it is important not to use a metal drinker when adding apple cider vingear.
