JAMES HARRIS, DVM
Drugs might help bird's arthritis
 My 27-year-old Amazon came to me with severe arthritis in his legs and toes. Lately he is having trouble gripping, although he is still able to stand on the perches in his cage. What can I safely give him to ease his discomfort and allow him more mobility?
--Cindy DeMoore, Santa Rosa, Calif.
 Birds suffering from joint disease or other painful conditions can obtain some level of relief and comfort from non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. (You don't want to give your bird steroids because they suppress the immune system.) Although none of the licensed arthritis veterinary drugs on the market are approved for birds, many of them are safe and effective. One is meloxicam, a liquid your veterinarian can prescribe for giving your bird orally or hiding in food you're sure he will completely consume. If there are already extensive changes in your bird's joints or reduced range of motion, the medicine may not improve his ability to grip, but it should ease his discomfort. Good luck.
James Harris, DVM is owner and medical director of the Mayfair Veterinary Clinic in Sandy Bay, Tasmania, Australia. He founded Montclair Veterinary Hospital in Oakland, Calif., and has served as medical director and chairman of the board for the International Bird Rescue Research Center in Berkeley. Dr. Harris' numerous professional honors include California and National Bustad Companion Animal DVM Awards.
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