How to Research Health Risks for Ostriches
Ostriches, the largest birds in the world, are prone to several types of injuries and have common ailments resulting from their farm environment. Before starting an ostrich farm, research common ostrich ailments like heat stress, ticks, mites and traumatic injuries from predators such as dogs and wolves. Keeping your ostriches healthy not only benefits your birds but minimizes health risks to the handlers and farmers.
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Instructions
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Do your research. Study ostrich health and anatomy. Look for reference books on ostrich medical management, farming and husbandry. Research optimal conditions for raising and caring for ostriches before you decide to purchase chicks. Review the USDA National Agricultural Library reference on raising ostriches.
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Find an avian veterinarian in your area. Several groups provide information and sources for specialty, poultry and farm animal veterinarians online. You can also check with your local veterinarian for a referral. Once you find an avian veterinarian, consult with them on best feed choices, supplements and preventive care to maintain the health of your birds.
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Familiarize yourself with the most common ostrich ailments and injuries. For example, ostriches are prone to several types of eye problems like conjunctivitis and corneal damage (injuries or scratches on the eye itself). Ostriches, especially chicks, also tend to eat whatever they can reach, which can cause serious health problems. Learn the risks and the symptoms to be prepared.
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Research the incubation practices for optimal health and give your ostrich chicks the best chance at preventing illnesses and injuries later in life.
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Plan your ostrich facility carefully and well in advance of accepting delivery of eggs or chicks. Research equipment and building materials you'll need to house the ostriches for best possible health conditions. For example, build fences that are smooth and flexible to prevent the risk of ostrich injury. Ostriches also require protection from extremely cold and extremely hot conditions.
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Review the World Ostrich Association's paper on Avian Flu health risk in ostriches. The document lists biosecurity measures, facilities management, vaccinations and signs of illness in ostriches.
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Study potential health risks to humans from ostrich products, such as Newcastle disease, Avian flu, Borna disease (though the disease is likely not present in the ostrich meat products) and others.
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Tips & Warnings
To calm an injured ostrich, obstruct the ostrich's sight with a soft sock over its head and neck to create night-like darkness which somewhat relaxes the bird.
Ostriches require about 1 1/2 gallons of water per day for optimal health and hydration.
An ostrich can deliver a 500 pound per square inch kick (full grown). Birds that aren't socialized well can become agitated and risk injuring themselves and the people handling them. Spend time moving around and working with the ostriches as much as possible to keep them calm in the presence of people later.
