Karen Shaw Becker, DVM, NMD

Drugs are effective in the treatment of many diseases, but they are often times metabolically viewed as a foreign substance to birds, which are innately very sensitive. Drugs treat symptoms, but nutrients can be used to treat the cause of the disease. Drugs may also block absorption of nutrients, leading to nutritional impairment and reduced healing responses (Daphne Roe 1984). It is well known the certain vitamins and mineral deficiencies can adversely affect exotic animal’s immune systems. Recent nutritional research has demonstrated that certain nutrients, vitamins, herbs and botanical extracts can be very beneficial in reducing the progression of degenerative avian and exotic diseases, enhance immune function, aid in detoxification, promote antioxidant activity and help restore and repair damaged tissues. All supplements should be prescribed and used under the supervision of an avian/exotic animal veterinarian.