African grey parrots are particularly prone to calcium deficiency. In this species the main presenting sign is fitting. Most birds are two to five years of age when these fits start. Young birds can suffer growth deformities as a result of imbalances of this nature. Bird's can have deformities in their long bone structures, which can be incompatible with an adequate life.
Surgical correction is possible in some cases.
Firstly we need to confirm a diagnosis, so treatment can be given properly. Once the sample is obtained then tests can be run on our 'in house' blood analyser or sent to a laboratory. This will demonstrate the low blood calcium and in most cases a high blood phosphorous. In egg bound birds we need to solve the secondary problem of the stuck egg first. In these the egg needs to be removed manually, with or without anaesthesia.