BRONCHIAL CATARRH OF BIRDS 39 



Etiology.— This often occurs from the extension of inflam- 

 mation of the nasal passages, the larynx and trachea. Expos- 

 ure to dampness, cold draughts of air and to sudden and 

 extreme changes of temperature are predisposing causes. 

 Specific infections (infectious nasal catarrh, tuberculosis); 

 parasites (Syngamus trachealis) ; fungi (aspergillus) are all 

 exciting causes and may produce an extensive and severe 

 bronchitis. 



Symptoms. —The birds become somewhat stupid, lose appe- 

 tite, show accelerated respirations and cough. Later the 

 symptoms grow more pronounced inducing severe dyspnea, 

 the mouth frequently held open to facilitate respiration. 



Auscultation reveals a blowing or whistling sound in the 

 bronchi, which, later, as the secretions accumulate, is 

 bubbling or rattling. 



Diagnosis.— This is made by the dyspnea, cough, stupidity 

 of the patient, and the course of the disease. 



Prognosis.— Favorable unless due to specific infection or 

 parasites. 



Treatment.— Hygienic— Keep the birds in a warm place 

 which is well ventilated and free from cold draughts. 



Dietetic.— Give soft and nutritious food (stale bread and 

 milk, oatmeal and milk, meat scraps) . 



Medical.— Inhalations of vapors from boiling water con- 

 taining sodium bicarbonate (2 per cent.), creolin (2 per cent.) 

 or carbolic acid (3 per cent.). 



To stimulate the bronchial secretions use the following: 



J$ — Ammonii chloridi . 5 



Mellis . 0.5 



Aquse feniculi 50.0 



Misce et fiat solutio. 



Sig. — Give teaspoonful three to four times daily. 



As a laxative and antiseptic: 



R — Olei terebinthinse . °- 40 



Olei ricini ... 2 . 00 



Misce et fiat solutio. 

 Sig. — Give at once and repeat every four to six hours until a laxative 

 action is produced. 



