Ornithosis affecting the upper respiratory tract in pigeons.

Ornithosis Complex Overview

Ornithosis Complex is an illness affecting the upper respiratory tract in pigeons. This condition is common among both young and older birds, especially when they begin their training and racing programs. Ornithosis is highly contagious and can result in increased losses if not treated promptly.

Symptoms of Ornithosis Complex

Pigeons affected by ornithosis may exhibit the following signs:

  • Feather plucking
  • Dirty or wet noses
  • Head-scratching
  • Bluish skin (especially around the face)
  • Red, inflamed throat
  • Swollen or puffy head
  • Frequent yawning
  • One-eye colds
  • Rattling or wheezing sounds
  • Watery eyes
  • Inflamed third eyelid (more common in young pigeons)
  • Mucus discharge (snot)

When racing or training, affected birds often return exhausted, showing dry, unhealthy plumage, puffed feathers around the ears, halted moulting, and reduced stamina. Approximately 60% of young pigeons may develop symptoms, leading to substantial losses in performance. Immediate treatment is necessary, and severely affected pigeons should be rested for at least a week to prevent further health decline.

Treatment Options

For effective management, the following veterinary medicines can be used for the ornithosis complex:

  • Amoxicillin
  • Tylan
  • Doxycycline
  • Chlorsol

Recommended Combination Treatments for Severe Ornithosis

In more serious cases, combining treatments is often recommended:

Properly following these treatment protocols and consulting with a veterinarian can help reduce losses, promote recovery, and improve performance in pigeons affected by ornithosis complex.

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