Åreforkalkning hos fugler
Also known as: Åreforkalkning
Åreforkalkning er en degenerativ arteriesykdom som er vanlig hos eldre selskapspapegøyer, der fettavleiringer innsnevrer og stivner de store blodårene. Den er forbundet med fettrikt frøfôr, overvekt og inaktivitet. Sykdommen kan forårsake plutselig død, svakhet, kollaps eller nevrologiske symptomer og oppdages ofte ved obduksjon.
Quick facts
- Type:
- Degenerative
- Typical onset:
- Chronic
- Body systems:
- Cardiovascular
- Affected species:
- BUDGERIGAR, COCKATIEL, PARROT
Overview
Atherosclerosis is a common cardiovascular disease of older psittacines, in which fat and other material accumulate in the walls of major arteries, narrowing and hardening them. Parrots such as African greys and Amazons are frequently affected.
Causes
High-fat, seed-based diets, obesity, inactivity, and chronic reproductive hormone exposure contribute to the buildup. Age increases risk.
Signs
Many birds show no signs until sudden death. Others have weakness, fainting, exercise intolerance, labored breathing, or neurological signs such as limb weakness.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is challenging in life; imaging, blood lipid measurement, and assessment of risk factors help, while definitive diagnosis is often at necropsy.
Treatment & Management
Management focuses on weight loss, a lower-fat balanced diet, exercise, and sometimes medications that affect blood lipids or support the heart.
Prevention
Feed a balanced low-fat diet rather than seeds, encourage activity, maintain healthy body weight, and limit chronic hormonal stimulation.
Sources & references
- Merck Veterinary Manual — Reviews atherosclerosis in pet parrots as a diet- and obesity-related arterial disease that can cause sudden death, managed through diet and exercise.
This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you are worried about your pet, contact your veterinarian.