How awful! Thank you Elaine for letting me know!
I did some more reading, and it seems like I might have to put Skye on antibiotics for 45 days, although she isn't showing any symptoms. I'll call the vet on Monday.
Preventive measures
Once psittacosis has been diagnosed, it is important to treat the birds and their environment. Remember that healthy birds may be harbouring the bacteria as well. Treatment suggestions include:
- Avoid unnecessary handling of sick birds.
- Avoid breathing in any dust from dried bird droppings, feathers or cage dust.
- Isolate sick birds from the rest of the flock.
- Treat infected birds with appropriate antibiotics for at least one month.
- Clean cages with appropriate disinfectants, since the bacteria can live for several months in shed feathers and droppings.
- Wear masks and gloves while cleaning the cages to prevent infection.
- Clean the cages regularly, using plenty of water to minimise the risk of floating dander.
- Always wash hands thoroughly after tending to birds.
Skye is in a new cage, with new dishes and a disinfected swing. Their big cage has been disinfected and packed up. I won't take it out for a few months.
It's also contagious to dogs! This is really scary. Their symptoms would be:
- Dogs
- Cough
- Fever
- Lameness (what is lameness?
- Humans can also catch it, but I would know if I got sick. It's got a lot of symptoms for humans.
I have plenty to say about these pet mills, but we've all said it and heard it.
It is my fault that I bought birds from a pet store.
However, the government really has to become involved. What if a newborn baby caught it? Or an elderly person, or someone like my daughter who has MS. Her immune system is compromised because of it.
But, who do I contact, and how do I make them care?