Oral Trichomoniasis in Black Kites (Milvus migrans) and Domestic Pigeons (Columba livia domestica): Clinical Manifestations and Therapeutic Strategies
Devangini K. Pandya *
Department of Veterinary Medicine, COVSAH, Kamdhenu University, Anand, India.
Rahul A. Chauhan
Department of Veterinary Medicine, COVSAH, Kamdhenu University, Anand, India.
Jagruti N. Parmar
Department of Veterinary Medicine, COVSAH, Kamdhenu University, Junagadh, India.
Neha M. Rao
Department of Veterinary Medicine, COVSAH, Kamdhenu University, Anand, India.
Kirtikumar Jadhav
Jivdaya Charitable Trust, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India.
Hemlata D. Patel
Department of Veterinary Medicine, COVSAH, Kamdhenu University, Anand, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Oral trichomoniasis, caused by Trichomonas gallinae, is a common protozoal infection in black kites and domestic pigeons. This study examined 200 birds (140 black kites, 60 pigeons). The infection rate was higher in pigeons (75%) than in black kites (17.8%). Statistically, the percentage prevalence of Trichomoniasis in domestic pigeon was highly significant (p <0.001) by Chi square analysis. Clinical signs included dehydration (68.57%), anorexia (64.29%), and oropharyngeal lesions (55.71%), with pigeons showing more severe symptoms, including neurological signs. Necropsy revealed caseous necrosis in the oral cavity and digestive tract, with lesion severity linked to mortality. Metronidazole was more effective, achieving 100% recovery in mild cases and 75% in moderate cases, whereas Sulfamethoxazole-Trimethoprim showed limited efficacy. Early detection and prompt treatment are essential to reducing mortality.
Keywords: Trichomonas gallinae, black kite, domestic pigeon, oral lesions, metronidazole, sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim.