[Majj]

seeing many people seem to be confused ...
Its a choice up to each individual, I use it as suggested by our avian vet to help cut the yeast back in the fids .....

Here is a good link ..Read up and make your own decision....

http://www.cagenbird.com/vinegar.htm


Acidic pH Balance Will Discourage Bacteria, Yeast & Fungal Growth
Apple cider vinegar destroys microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, viruses and others, and prevents poisons from reaching the rest of the systems of the body. It has been proven to inhibit the growth of gram-negative bacilli, Pseudomonas, and Candida. The acid nature of vinegar makes the digestive tract environment unpleasant for germs and fungus. Apple cider vinegar has proven to be a natural treatment (and preventative) in simple cases of avian pediatric digestive disorders. Dr. Jarvis through his own research believes that apple cider vinegar will lower bloods natural alkalinity, bringing it closer to a natural healthy acid state. A naturally acidic digestive tract digestive, with the correct pH balance, will discourage bacteria and is less likely to grow yeast and fungus. Apple cider vinegar can assist the natural process of breaking food in the stomach. The acidic qualities of ACV will help break down protein, in the digestive system, for absorption into the bloodstream.

P.S You should by the Health Food Stores UN Pasturised Vinegar with The "MOTHER " the floaty bits , not the stuff in the supermarket which is fine for cleaning the cage and dishes but not for drinking ..I also have a little in a spritz bottle mixed with water and spray it on the fids fresh chopped up veggies , it helps keep it bacteria free longer...
I make a 2litre bottle to keep in my fridge of drinking water with just 2 cap fulls of ACV in it 2 cap fulls of Aloe Juice and a cap of Milk thistle ..Have been doing this for the past 6 years ..so far the boys are fit and healthy...
Always check with your own avian vet before you decide I did and he gave me the O.K...

[Movedonandhappy]

I don't do this because my vet says no. When I take Simba in I will ask her why she said no. Thanks Majj~!

[Seasa]

ACV is great stuff for animals or humans alike. I drink two large cups w/ water 2x a day. My brids get it in their drinking water and so do my dogs on occasion (they can smell it so it's harder to get it into them) It's great for tons and tons of things.



Thanks for posting.

[Majj]

Here is a copy of an email my vet sent me after I enquired and had some questions (in the other ACV post I just bumped up..)


After reading this about killing good bacteria I wrote to our vet here is his reply ..I feel o.k about using it daily now ...

Hey Marion

Sorry for so long before a reply - I have been a little run down myself this last fortnight

Apple cider vinegar does NOT kill any pathogens in the GUT. Its action is to alter the pH of the gut somewhat to make it less favourable for the bad bacteria and yeasts to flourish. Just about all birds will have a low number of dangerous bugs and yeasts in their gut, which by a variety of mechanisms are prevented from growing to huge numbers. Competition from "good" bacteria, particular combinations or types of foods (especially lowering the proportion of simple carbohydrates), and gastrointestinal pH all play part of a protective role.

I know of very little research to guide me in answering whether you should use it continuously or episodically. I think theoretical arguments could be mounted for either position. I see no problems arise when we use it continuously, and so I see no reason to suggest you use episodically if it is currently no problem to you! Always remember to use it at no more than 1:20, and I use it at 1:40. If I ever learn anything different then you will be the first to know!

I think the use of St Mary's thistle and probiotics are entirely justifiable as well. Cinnamon is a v special spice with an increasing number of useful health-promoting properties, and I think it is a useful dietary additive. Dr Harrison's information is extremely useful, but always should be viewed in the context of his business trying to sell some stuff. While the information is always interesting and has some basis in science, I think the benefits that flow can sometimes be overstated. He is a v good veterinarian however!
Mark

[Majj]

Bump.

[Majj]

up again.....

[GeorgiaOnMyMind]

How much would I add to an 8 oz. crock?

[marylee]

I would say not more than a few drops.

I don't use it... My bird doesn't like it.