Understanding the Avian Post-purchase Exam

After the purchase of a new bird, it is important to schedule a post-purchase examination with a veterinarian who is experienced in avian medicine. Generally, it is recommended to schedule an examination a few days after actually taking a new bird home. This allows the new owner to observe the new bird and its behavior, and allows the owner to accurately answer questions that the avian veterinarian might have concerning the bird. New birds should be effectively isolated from birds that are already in residence in the home. Of course, if health issues arise, an immediate examination is recommended.

The typical post-purchase examination consists of a gathering of historical data such as hatch dates, typical diet, behavior, source of purchase, previous medical tests, etc. The actual physical examination gives the doctor a chance to look at such things as body condition, cardiopulmonary systems, gastrointestinal tract, neurological systems, eyes, oral cavity, ears, etc. The doctor can also establish baseline physical information on which to base future health examinations. Sometimes, health issues are not fully identifiable on physical examination. On post-purchase examinations, it is often important to do some laboratory testing to help ensure the health of a new bird and reduce the potential threats to the health of existing birds and the new owner.

There are many options when it comes to laboratory testing, and these different options should be tailored to the individual patient. Laboratory tests are used to determine bird health and to establish baseline data for an individual in preparation for future health problems. Some of the commonly recommended post-purchase laboratory tests are:

Complete Blood Count (CBC) – looks at white and red blood cell counts.
Serum Chemistries – checks liver, kidney, muscle, immune system, electrolytes, etc.
Chlamydia (Psittacosis) Test – this is an important test for one specific disease that a bird may carry for long periods of time without being sick. This disease may be transmitted to other birds and to humans. There are several types of tests, of varying accuracy, for this disease. An avian veterinarian can help determine which test is best under specific circumstances.
Fecal Gram Stains – checks types of bacteria present in the digestive tract.
Psittacine Beak & Feather Disease (PBFD) Test – a DNA amplification that checks for PBFD virus, which is a fatal disease that may be carried for years without symptoms.
Polyoma Virus Test – a DNA amplification test that checks for yet another viral disease.
Protein Electrophoresis – determines quantities of different types of blood proteins, which may help identify hidden disease processes.
Other tests include: fecal parasite testing, Giardia testing, bacterial cultures, DNA blood sexing and others.

Michael S. Samuels, D.V.M.
Central Animal Hospital