Lead and Zinc Toxicity in Birds
Lead and Zinc are compounds commonly found in old houses and apartments. These heavy metals are particularly toxic to birds, as birds often explore their world by chewing and nibbling. These toxins are found in a wide variety of places such as paint, moldings, window grout, shower curtains and other metal objects. We have even found zinc in certain inexpensive, poorly made birdcages and toys. Many older apartments are considered to be lead free because the paint has been covered by many layers of non-lead paint. This makes it less of a risk for children, but unfortunately it is still accessible to birds with their sharp beaks. To make matters worse, many birds will eat lead willingly due to its sweet taste.
When a bird ingests lead or zinc, the metal is distributed to various tissues throughout its body. Therefore the signs exhibited by a bird affected by such toxicity may vary. They include digestive problems like regurgitation, vomiting, diarrhea, watery and bloody stools. Birds sometimes show signs of a neurological problem including lameness, seizures or loss of balance. Birds can also exhibit vague signs such as lethargy and weakness. Luckily such toxicity can be treated.
We begin by testing the blood of birds that are possibly affected. We then treat birds with high levels with a chelating agent that draws the metal out of the body tissues, pulls it into the bloodstream, and binds the metal up. From here, the bird can excrete the toxins out in the urine or stool. Besides blood tests, it is sometimes necessary to take x-rays if it is suspected that the bird may have a large piece of metal in the digestive tract.
The typical treatment course for an affected bird entails a 5-day hospital stay. During this time the bird receives medications, fluids, and special feeding if necessary. After the treatment is complete, a blood test is repeated to confirm that the bird is again normal. Most of the time we are able to fully resolve the condition with one course of treatment.
If you suspect that your bird may have been exposed to lead or zinc, or is showing any of the signs listed above, we strongly encourage you to have your bird tested.
