January/February 2026

11 – Purebred PIGEON of the brain, paralysis, head pressing or leaning, and muscle necrosis in the breast region. Young birds under one year of age are most often affected. There is evidence that pigeon circovirus may predispose birds to streptococcal infection by suppressing the immune system. Antibiotics are the primary treatment, but resistance to commonly available medications is increasing. Culture of the bacteria and antibiotic sensitivity testing are ideal for pinpointing best treatment identification. Amoxicillin and ampicillin are often first choices to be used while awaiting culture results, along with aggressive support- ive care. M etabolic D isorders Several metabolic conditions can produce neurologic signs in pigeons. Normal nerve function depends on appropri- ate electrolyte levels, including sodium, potassium, and chlo- ride. These are rarely abnormal in healthy pigeons. Calcium deficiency, however, can cause profound neurologic dysfunc- tion, leading to tremors, muscle spasms, and seizures. Adequate calcium absorption requires sufficient vitamin D3, obtained through diet or sunlight exposure. During peri- ods of increased calcium demand – most notably egg produc- tion– hens are at risk for calcium deficiency. Proper supple- mentation of calcium and vitamin D3 significantly reduces the risk of this potentially fatal condition. Egg production can also lead to egg binding or reproduc- tive complications. A retained or oversized egg can cause me- chanical trauma to nerves supplying the legs. Egg binding is a medical emergency, but even after successful egg passage, signs of nerve damage may appear. Affected hens may show lameness or difficulty perching due to nerve impingement. With supportive care, some birds regain function, though permanent damage is possible. T rauma Physical trauma is another cause of neurologic disease. Birds that collide with windows, walls, or loft ceilings may suffer concussions or internal bleeding within the skull. Neu- rologic signs may not appear immediately and can develop hours after the injury. Damage to the spinal cord can result in lameness or paralysis, depending on the location and severity of the injury. Mild cases often recover with supportive care, while complete paralysis carries a poor prognosis. Predator encounters, including near-misses with hawks or nocturnal disturbances, can result in head injuries or spinal trauma. Birds may lose large numbers of feathers while escap- ing, which can help identify trauma as the cause. While many keepers attribute head tilt to injury, trauma is far less common than PMV-1 as a cause of neurologic disease. T oxins Toxic exposure is another important consideration. Neurologic signs may result from contaminated feed, heavy metals such as lead or mercury, or accidental overdosing of medications. Organophosphate insecticides used to treat mites and lice are a common source of toxicity. Signs include trem- ors, paralysis, diarrhea, dilated pupils, and death. These cases often follow recent treatment intended to improve bird health. Nitroimidazole drugs, such as dimetridazole and metro- nidazole, are commonly used to treat canker (trichomoniasis). These medications have a narrow margin of safety, and over- dosing can result in incoordination, vision impairment, blind- ness, and weight loss. Individual dosing is far safer than flock treatment, as some birds may consume excessive amounts of medicated water or feed. C onclusion Pigeons are susceptible to a wide range of conditions that can affect their nervous system. Obtaining an accurate diagnosis – or postmortem examination when necessary – is critical when neurologic disease is present. Careful quarantine practices, sound health management, and close attention to detail within the loft play a vital role in protecting the health of your birds. • Tim England DVM is a veterinarian at the Animal Medical Center of Chicago. He is a founding member of the Komorner Tumbler Association. He raises Komorner tumbler pigeons at Peckerwood Farm in Southwest Michigan. He welcomes your comments and questions: TimEDVM@gmail.com © 2026 Tim England DVM All Rights Reserved.