The methods employed to diagnose parasitic problems in birds are simpler than the laboratory methods described previously. As previously stated, blood parasites may be noted upon examination of stained blood smears. Intestinal parasites are rarely detected by bird owners. Sometimes these parasites are seen hanging from the bird's vent. Miscellaneous Laboratory Tests Samples for certain special tests must be submitted to other laboratories for analyses.
Viral diseases are difficult to diagnose in caged birds.
Virus isolation and identification require submission of specific tissues or body fluids, secretions or excretions, and must be performed by State laboratories, or laboratories located within veterinary colleges. These tests are time-consuming and costly. Necropsy Ideally, the avian veterinarian would cure every bird presented for treatment. Unfortunately, some avian patients die in spite of the veterinarian's best efforts. The results may confirm the diagnosis suspected before death, or will at least help the veterinarian to better understand why the bird died.