An Interview with Brian Speer, DVM, Diplomate, ABVP, certified in avian practice, Diplomate, ECAMS, Certified specialist in avian medicine and surgery (Europe)

1) What led you into veterinary medicine?

I have always wanted to be in the veterinary medical field. When I was in the third grade, I told my parents I was going to be a veterinarian, and never really changed my sights and goals from then.

2) What led to you to your speciality?

My plan all through veterinary school was to obtain a good general education in a mixed animal track. In essence, I was planning on being a "Jack of All Trades, and Master of None". After about two years in general practice, it became very apparent to me that some form of mastery was needed to provide me the level of skills my heart really needed, and that all creatures really did not fit practically in that form. So, after a considerable amount of soul searching, birds ended up being where my passion and continued focus resided. I graduated in 1983, decided to focus professionally on birds in 1985, stopped working clinically with non-avian species in 1989, and have never really looked back. Still, [I] have lots of things to learn, and even more passion than in those earlier years.

3) Let’s talk about Fatty Liver Disease. What is it?

Fatty liver disease is more properly referred to as hepatic lipidosis. Simply stated, hepatic lipidosis or fatty infiltration of the liver can cause progressive liver dysfunction and death. The fatty accumulation occurs when poultry species birds are fed high energy or high fat diets that are deficient in biotin choline, and methionine, three nutrients important in lipid metabolism. Other factors may be involved, such as restricted exercise, genetic predisposition, endocrine disorders (hypothyroidism, diabetes mellitus), toxins, and excessive hormones. Psittacine species most commonly affected include amazons, galahs, and budgerigars.

4) Is it a common problem in pet birds? Is genetics involved?

This disease is quite common in pet birds, and although genetics may be a factor, the diet and exercise of the birds are the most common risk factors for this disease.

5) What is the treatment for this disorder?

Treatment for the disease is with good supportive care, combined with a dietary change towards a more appropriate vitamin balanced and low fat diet. Antioxidant therapies may be helpful.

6) What is the most important thing that pet owners can do to help prevent this illness?

The most effective prevention is proper nutrition and exercise. Obesity, secondary to the all-too-common seed diets that are fed is a very very common risk factor the disease. The commercially manufactured formulated diets are excellent starts in this direction, although not necessarily an absolutely mandatory call in all cases. Regular physical examinations, with an experienced avian veterinarian are very helpful to ascertain body condition, dietary management details that may need to be changed, or other dietary and environmental enrichments to consider.