How to Give a Bird Medicine

If your bird has been diagnosed as being sick, your vet will most likely prescribe medication. At first, giving that medicine to your bird may appear to be an impossible task. If you adhere to some simple guidelines, you'll have the technique mastered in no time.

Things You'll Need

  • Avian vet
  • Syringes
  • Medicine
  • Towel
  • Net
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Instructions

  1. Home Care

    • 1

      Pay close attention to your vet's instructions, including proper dosage, number of times to administer daily and the total number of days prescribed. Don't be afraid to ask for them in writing.

    • 2

      Ask your vet to demonstrate anything you are uncertain about doing, such as the best method for giving medication or the proper way to handle your bird.

    • 3

      Prepare for emergencies. Find out who to call should you encounter an emergency. Ask if there is a pet emergency room in your area. Keep contact numbers handy.

    Giving the Medication

    • 4

      Plan ahead and have all tools, equipment and medicine ready before restraining your bird.

    • 5

      Retrieve the bird, using a towel to catch your feathered friend. It will protect and conceal your hands so the only thing your bird sees moving toward him is a towel. Avoid putting pressure on the bird's chest. It will interfere with his breathing.

    • 6

      Minimize handling. Keep the time you handle your bird to a minimum. It will reduce stress and overheating problems.

    • 7

      Place the proper amount of liquid medicine into a syringe. Hold the bird's head and carefully embrace his neck where it connects to the lower jaw. With the tip of the syringe resting inside the left side of the bird's mouth, release the liquid toward the back of the throat. Keep the medicine from entering the bird's airway.

    • 8

      Hide other medications in the bird's food or water so the bird can "self-medicate."