Cutaneous Papillomatosis (Warts) in Birds
What is cutaneous papillomatosis?
Papilloma on the claw of a red-tailed hawk.
(Photo: Dr. Gregory Rich, DVM)
Cutaneous papillomatosis is a condition in which papillomas (non-cancerous growths, or warts) develop due to papillomavirus. Some cases, however, do not have an identifiable cause. Commonly affected pet bird species include finches, canaries, cockatiels, budgerigars, and African gray parrots. Cutaneous papillomatosis is not the same disease as the viral papilloma growths involving the cloaca or intestinal tract in large psittacines.
What are the clinical signs of cutaneous papillomatosis in birds?
Cutaneous papillomas (warts) commonly occur on the legs and feet (especially in finches), toes, jaw, eyelids, leading edge of upper and lower beak, neck, wings, and the uropygial (preen) gland at the base of the tail. There may be one wart or many warts in several locations on your bird’s body.
The warts have a raised, fleshy structure and are often described as having a cauliflower-like appearance. Warts on the toes may crack and/or bleed, requiring more urgent care and bandaging.
How is cutaneous papillomatosis treated?
An avian veterinarian can remove the warts using cautery or radiosurgery, unless the location of a wart is risky due to blood vessels nearby or if the wart is too close to vital structures on the skull. Depending on the location of the warts, several treatments may be needed. Even with treatment, the warts may recur, especially if they are caused by papillomavirus. Some warts may spontaneously regress (go away on their own).
Can I get warts from my bird?
People can get warts, but there is no evidence that birds with cutaneous papillomatosis can spread the condition to people or any other pets, except other birds.
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