Spice spent the day at the vet. He had been sneezing a lot and then Sat. and Sun. night he was making squeeking sounds when he was breathing. I called the vet first thing this morning. They were packed and I couldn't get an appt. But they said I could drop him off for the vet to examine when she had a chance. Turns out Spice has a sinus infection. They did a cytology-sinus flush and put him on Baytril 2x a day for 2 weeks. Also I have to drop saline in each nostril once a day. Also he needs a bath or misting every other day.
The interesting thing that has happened over the last two days is that sweet, docile Sugar had started picking on Spice. Sugar has suddenly become very vocal and has been jumping all around the cage. He even nibbled at some parsley I had hanging and played with the paper cupcake toy I made. THIS IS NOT MY SUGAR. I wonder what happened?
Has anyone else's bird had a sinus infection? I never knew they could get them.
I'm sorry that Spice is ill. I don't have any experience with sinus infections. How is Spice taking his medication? Interesting observations on Sugar's odd behaviors - must have something to do with her sensing that Spice is not well?
Well I just gave Spice his med by mouth.
Sarah you asked how he is taking it. He wasn't happy but I think I got it in him. Notice I said think. He was fighting me. Tomorrow I have to put drops in his nostrils. I'm sure he will love that. I think you might be right about the change in Sugar's behavior possibly relating to his illness.Or like Angela said he may be grumpy and hormonal. Who can figure men out????????
Homebird, the baths are to keep the dust down. Sugar just finished a molt and Spice is just starting. Feathers have been everywhere. I have even noticed a birdy smell that is more prominent lately. I find it pleasant but then I love these guys. I think the dust must be irritating his sinuses. I asked about Sugar and the vet said he should be okay. But of course if I see symptons bring him in. He was sneezing about 2 weeks ago but has been fine since then.
And as luck would have it, I leave for vacation tomorrow. My husband will be home but there is no way he can handle giving Spice this medicine so Spice is going with me. Sugar needs some alone time anyway.
I hope everything goes ok as you take Spice with you on vacation - you may be right about Sugar being able to use some alone time. And at least Spice can get his medicine and hopefully recover soon. Tomorrow with the nose drops does not sound fun - let us know how it goes. Good luck.