Severe Vitamin A deficiency in new bird

[momto3]

We just brought home a baby blue crowned conure. He (yes, it is a he) was diagnosed with severe vitamin A deficiency. I will need to give him Vitamin A supplement every day for the next year! Has anyone every had a baby bird with this problem? He is 18 weeks old. The breeder seems to be a good breeder and she cares about the birds--she was shocked by this diagnosis. Now I am worried about how he will grow since he had this problem as a baby. The vet tells me that only time will tell....Any advice would be much appreciated! Thank you.

 

[newtobirds]

Did your vet suggest "Sunshine Factore." How did your vet diagnose the deficiency?

 

[momto3]

The deficiency was diagnosed through the CBC panel that they ran. He is taking Avix HealX Booster, 0.1ml daily.

 

[crimson]

Thank goodness you took him to the vet. Harrisons is an excellent product, but I would take him back for another test in a few months to see if there is any improvement. I use organic spirolina (vit.A) that I sprinkle on my birds food.

 

[newtobirds]

Thank you for the information. I just took in a rescue and was told that he was also Vit A deficient but I hadn't done a panel yet. My vet strongly pushed Sunshine Factor.

I guess that A deficiencies are common in totally seed-fed birds, but it seems sorta shocking in a baby...

 

[momto3]

He is eating fresh fruits and veggies and Dr. D's pellets so it is concerning, The good news is that he does like the supplement and is taking it with no problem. I am worried about long term health because he is just a baby and shouldn't be having this problem given the foods that he is eating. I am VERY glad that I spent the money on the full work up or I never would have known this as he appears healthy otherwise. Although, he does have quite a few stress bars....