Trichomoniasis (Canker)

    Canker is a widely distributed infectious disease. Approximately 80% of all pigeons are infested with trichomonas. Adult pigeons rarely show symptoms of the disease, but in young birds the infection is often severe and fatal.

    Trichomonas is a protozoan, it is also a flagellate which can propel itself in fluids. In many pigeons small pinhead sized yellow spots are observed in the throat or gullet. These are often accumulations of the canker which look like small yellow buttons. In adult pigeons canker does not usually produce any significant damage to health, and there is some kind of equilibrium between the canker and the defense mechanisms of the pigeons body. It is only when the defenses of the pigeon are weakened by stress that the canker can multiply profusely, and a slight insignificant canker infection then turns into a serious problem. 

     The stress can be caused by excessive demands in breeding, weakening of the bird by infestation with internal parasites, paratyphoid, respiratory tract infection or the first molting of the squabs. The physical condition of the pigeons has a bearing on the course of the disease. Weak birds or young birds usually contract the rapidly spreading canker to which they may succumb after a short period due to a lack of defense mechanisms.

    There are three forms of the disease:

  • Pharyngeal Form: With this form of the disease, caseous yellow deposits are observed in the throat when the beak is opened. The "buttons" which may reach the size of a bean, inhibit the intake of feed and water as well as breathing.

  • Umbilical Form: With this form of the disease the canker passes from the infected nest box to the naval of the nestlings (which has not completely closed) into the body. A tumor forms below the skin. An incision shows the caseous and crumbly canker. In many cases the infection is confined to this area only.

  • Organ Form: If the infection is not confined to the naval or throat, the canker may attack various internal organs and cause considerable changes. It is particularly in the liver that coarse yellowish canker are formed and which are deeply embedded in the organ. Only general signs like listlessness, apathy, and ruffled plumage as well as diarrhea, emaciation, and debility may be observed.

   The medication of choice is: Ronidazole (Ridzol) This is the product of choice in Europe for the treatment of canker. Available in powder or tablets (not harmful to young birds).

  • Tablets: 1 Tablet a day for 3 days, may repeat. Individual Treatment.

  • Powder: 1 Tsp. per gallon of water for 5 days. Flock Treatment.