Aspergillosis

What is it?

Aspergillosis is a fungal infection, usually of the air sacs and lungs, caused by breathing in Aspergillus spores from moldy food, bedding, or poor ventilation. Stress and vitamin A deficiency increase risk.

What signs should I watch for?

Signs to watch for include breathing changes, tail bobbing; change in voice or reduced talking; lethargy, weight loss; and breathing difficulty in advanced cases.

How is it diagnosed and treated?

Diagnosis may require blood work, X-rays, CT, endoscopy, and fungal testing. Treatment involves long courses of antifungal medication, sometimes nebulized, and surgery in some cases.

Can it be prevented, and what's the outlook?

• Treatment is often long and outlook depends on how early it's caught.
• Keep food fresh and dry, clean cages often, and ensure good ventilation—important in humid Florida.