Cancer is more common in the parakeet than in any other domestic animal. Many authorities believe that a virus or genetic effect is involved in the growth of some tumors of the parakeet. Unfortunately many affected parakeets are quite young at the time of diagnosis. Cancer is more common in male parakeets than females.

Tumors are most commonly seen affecting the kidney. Kidney function itself may continue, but as the tumor enlarges, it presses on the sciatic nerve, which controls the leg. Therefore, in many cases the parakeet is brought in because of a leg or foot problem, although actually a mass inside the abdomen has caused the trouble. In many cases, the mass is slow growing, but because of its awkward location, it is almost impossible to remove surgically.

Tumors of the ovary or testicles are also common and can cause lameness (in the same way as the kidney tumor) as well as care color changes and other signs. All of these tumors eventually result in weight loss (you cannot see this, but you can feel this through the feathers if you check the keel bone). Sometimes feces become plastered to the vent or, rarely, a bird will regurgitate. Some tumors may cause pain. Besides those tumors which occur inside the bird, there are some that occur on the wing, face, leg, or rump.

Radiographs (x-rays) are often recommended to detail the extent of the problem and separate it from similar conditions. Blood tests are sometimes recommended for the same reasons. Surgical treatment can be used in some cases to successfully treat exterior tumors. Steroids and pain medication often are used to treat these problems as well.

Questions should be directed to our office, 502-245-7863