An approximately 5-year-old female grey-headed parrot (Poicephalus fuscicollis suahelicus) was evaluated after exposure to outdoor temperatures below −20°C (−4°F) for approximately 22 hours. Severe frostbite affecting multiple digits, as well as dehydration and a depressed attitude, were diagnosed. Treatment included oral antibiotics, antifungals, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), pentoxifylline, and topical aloe vera. Surgical amputation of the affected toes was not performed. Mild to moderate pododermatitis over the intertarsal joints developed because of a shift in weight bearing after the loss of most digits. Within 5 months after initial presentation, all frost-damaged toes had self-amputated, and the bird was able to function independently with no limitations in mobility.
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1 March 2016
Management of Severe Frostbite in a Grey-Headed Parrot (Poicephalus fuscicollis suahelicus)
Anna Martel-Arquette,
Christoph Mans,
Kurt Sladky
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Avian
cold damage
Freezing
frostbite
grey-headed parrot
Poicephalus fuscicollis suahelicus
psittacine