OW with Vit A deficency?

[natzback]

I inquired about a pair of Zon's and the guys says the female breaths funny sometimes and the vet says it's a Vit A deficency.
Is there anything to do for this?
Could they still breed and have healthy babies?
Or should I steer clear?

[Monica]

I'm not sure where the amazon expert is though here is some info from my book called 'The Healthy Bird Cookbook'...

Amazons
Amazons may have a tendency to have a vitamin-A deficiencies. Amazons need to have a diet that includes squash, pumpkin, spinach, red chili peppers, and other foods rich in vitamin A. Amazons also have a tendency to be overweight, so they also need a diet that limits foods that are lower in fat. Amazons should also be fed a diet that is lower in protein.

Vitamin A (Beta Carotene)
Function: Vitamin A is stored in the liver and is needed for good vision. Without adequate vitamin A, night vision is the first to be affected. It is essential for resistance to infections, particularly the sinuses. This is one of the most common deficiencies in birds. It belongs to the group of vitamins known as carotenoids. It is important for healthy eyes, skin, and mucous membranes.

Symptoms of a Deficiency: A bird with a vitamin A deficiency lacks energy. The bird can have abnormal feather structure, coloring, and growth. Decreased egg production, longer time between clutches, and poor hatchability are also reported. Males will develop a low sperm count. In extreme cases, the central nervous system is affected. Sometimes there can be lesions around the eyes, mouth, feet, and skin. Bones may not develop properly, and even kidney problems may occur. Night blindness is also reported, as well as changes in the cornea. Skin problems evidenced by a dried, thickened appearance, can be seen on the feet, cere, and face. Swelling of the sublingual salivary gland can be present, especially in Amazons, African Greys, and Cockatoos. Renal gout may occur in some cases.

Symptoms of Toxicity: Dcrease in appetite, weight loss, muscle soreness, enlarged liver and spleen, dermatitis, poor growth, diarrhea, and nausea.

Found: Vitamin A is found in most fruits, and in yellow or green vegetables. These foods include: beef, liver, carrots, squash, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, spinach, apricots, cantaloupe, dandelion leaves, red chili peppers, broccoli, peaches, egg yolk, and peas.




So in answer to your question, it's probably not a good idea to breed the amazons until you get them into better health.

[natzback]

Thank you - I figured there must be ways to get the Vit A into her besides a supplement, no, I wouldn't want to breed them until they both could handle it and maybe get her on a calcium supplement as well but that's some good info there....
Natalie