Getting a bird to take medicine

[some-budgie-loves-me]

So I posted about a week ago about my budgie's head feathers sticking up. A couple of days after that, she got a plugged up nare and then some open beak breathing...which improved, but I took her to the vet today. He (not certified avian but sees a lot of birds...and has seen Pippin for 3 years) said she looks okay, lungs sound okay, but based on symptoms, decided to prescribe an antibiotic and probiotic to be safe. He told me to put it in one of Pippin's favorite foods. Well, I got home and tried it on a tortilla, a gingerbread cookie, warm squash, a cracker...once she got a tiny bit on her beak, she realized there was medicine and refused to eat it. Then she just refused to take anything I gave her, suspicious of my intentions! I got a little bit in her, but I'd like to see her get more tomorrow. Any suggestions? (The medicine is flavored-- strawberry-- and I don't think that's helping!) I haven't tried the Benebac yet because it has to be given separately from the antibiotic. The vet tech said some birds actually like the Benebac so I guess we'll find out in the AM.

Pippin's never had antibiotic before so I'm a little worried.......

[sassie]

Try it in handfeeding formula. I keep all My parrots on it *formula* incase they ever have to get oral meds. Its a pain in the arse to force meds down a sick bird, but you may have to do it to make him better.

[Kiwi1224]

I have 3 budgies and 1 parrotlet...I must say the parrotlet is very good at taking meds if needed. The budgies are another story...talk about squirmers! I have a very soft piece of flannel and once I have the medicine ready in the oral syringe, I hold the bird in the flannel with my left thumb and index finger gently holding their head and then work at the tip of the beak with the syringe until they open and give them the med. I do have to ensure that I have a syringe that is not stiff to push since I have to work quick with budgies. If one of my sons is around, I have them hold and I work the meds. Good luck...hope she's feeling better.