Vitamin A Toxicosis in a Lorikeet Flock

Abstract

Vitamin A toxicosis in this lorikeet flock resulted in a wide range of clinical problems. A careful examination of the flock's diet was needed to determine the likely source of the problem, namely excessive vitamin A supplementation. Liver, rather than serum, vitamin A analysis is the preferred method of evaluating vitamin A status. Liver vitamin A levels obtained confirmed the diagnosis, and problems did not resolve until the withdrawal of vitamin supplementation. Vitamin A toxicosis needs to be kept in mind as a cause of problems in avian species that rely on carotenoid vitamin A precursors, rather than preformed vitamin A, for their dietary requirements. © 2006 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.