Just had a question. I have a clutch of lovebirds that I have been hand feeding basically from day one. The second of the clutch was fine up until a few days ago. He just recently started to not take his entire feeding and is far to young to wean never mind that he isn't eating on his own at all. When I feed him he acts hungry takes 2cc's then stops and stands up really straight almost seems to be sneezing and wobbles. Then after a while seems to return to typical behavior but is loosing weight too. I am very concerned. I plan to take him to the vet but unfortunately the only one around is the emergency vet and I would really like a direction to point them in so they do not try to give me the run around just to ring up the bill. PLEASE any advice, I have never had this happen in all the clutches we have had.
As BL466 & Gary said, the bird's problem could be crop impaction (etc.) but also could be a few other things.
How old is he? Where do you live if you don't mind saying? Have any pics you can share of him, nestbox, brooder, cage, etc.? What do his droppings look like (Gary might be able to visually analyze them for you from a pic, for the most part)? What name brand formula are you using and how do you store it? How do you feed? Intervals? Temp. of food? Thickness of food? Usual # of ccs or mls he eats? Temp. of feeding area? Etc.
The avian vet visit is probably the best way to handle your current situation.
If simply a crop infection, your little Lovie should be ok if treated quickly and properly. I use the prescription anti-fungal Nystatin (suggest everyone who allows breeding or hand feeds (etc.) have this med on hand). Others use ACV and etc.
If the infection (if there is one) hasn't gotten into the bloodstream or any other organs/areas other than the interior crop, the contact anti-fungal should knock it out. If it has gotten into the bird's system then a systemic anti-fungal like Diflucan (fluconazole) or similar (from your vet) may be needed. If bacterial, Baytril should work (although Baytril is more dangerous for very young birds) - your vet will advise what is best prescription med to use.
Curious as to your answer to BL466's question about crop emptying time?
Will send this for now before distracted by other happenings around my place here. Will also wait for your responses to other questions.