Toxins
Polytetrafluoroethlyene (PTFE) poisoning
Polytetrafluoroethlyene (PTFE) poisoning is more commonly known as Teflon poisoning, which occurs when non-stick cookware overheats and releases a gas toxic to birds. This causes edematous pneumonia and is extremely serious. If you think your bird has been exposed, then place them in the fresh air immediately and consult your vet.
Chocolate poisoning
Chocolate poisoning is caused by excessive intake of methylxanthine alkaloids. At first the symptoms will be vomiting and diarrhoea with the central nervous system becoming affected causing seizures.
Salt poisoning
Salt poisoning is caused by too much salt in your bird’s diet. This can lead to the brain swelling and in some cases can be fatal.
Heavy metal poisoning
Heavy metal poisoning can show up in a variety of guises depending on which metal has poisoned the bird. Common symptoms are diarrhoea, a stumbling or drunk appearance, paralysis, blindness, vomiting, depression, convulsions and seizures. It is important to make sure that your home is bird proof and that your bird is not allowed near anything that could poison him.
Nicotine
Not only can smoking near your bird irritate their respiratory system, but if they manage to get hold of your cigarettes they can be poisoned by eating them as nicotine is toxic.
If you think your bird has been poisoned, take him to the vet immediately.
