ABSTRACT
Intoxication can occur at home by ingesting, inhaling or touching toxic substances. Many countries have poisoning information centers that can be contacted by professionals for information about specific intoxications. This chapter discusses some intoxications such as inhalation intoxication, contact of the skin or eyes with a toxic substance and oral intoxication, including lead poisoning, poisonous plants, corrosive toxins and other toxins. Inhalation of toxic fumes, gases or smoke can poison birds through the respiratory tract. Examples include exposure to the toxin polytetrafluoroethylene (a toxic gas that is released when this non-stick coating on cookware is overheated), carbon monoxide, smoke, cooking fumes, and certain cleaning agents/solvents. In cases of suspected lead intoxication due to information from the medical history or clinical symptoms, X-rays are indicated. Birds with lead poisoning must be stabilized using fluid therapy, heat and nutrition.
