Antibiotics are used in the treatment of bacterial infections. Whenever possible, cultures should be taken from the site of infection to identify the organism present and the most effective antibiotic against that organism. Treatment is often instituted before results of cultures are obtained since identification of the most appropriate antibiotic based on sensitivity may take three to four days. Antibiotics may be changed if a more effective antibiotic against the inciting organism is demonstrated. Several factors must be understood once the most appropriate antibiotic is chosen.
Proper dose is essential.
The bird must be weighed accurately and given the calculated amount of medicine. Underdosing may lead to treatment failure and drug resistance, while excessive amounts may be toxic and damage the kidneys or liver. The route of administration of the drug is very important. A bird in an advanced state of illness must be given medication that will be absorbed rapidly and reach therapeutic levels in the bird's body. If a bird is too sick to eat or drink, putting medication in the food or water will not be effective.