Collection and submission of coelomic fluids and routine aspirates is as described for other species (see routine cytology section).

Crop Aspirate/Wash

• Indicated if there is vomiting, regurgitation not associated with courtship, delayed crop emptying or other suspected disorders of upper alimentary tract.
• Make multiple air-dried direct smear slides at the time of sampling
• Submit any fluid collected in EDTA for cytology and a plain tube for culture

Choana

• Indicated in cases of choanal ulceration/erosion
• Samples can be obtained by swabbing gently with pre-moistened swab (sterile saline)  – avoid touching the feathers around the vent
• Make multiple air-dried direct smears

Sinus Aspirate in Psittacines

•  Indicated in cases of facial swelling, nasal discharge or other upper respiratory tract disease.
• Make multiple air-dried direct smear slides at the time of sampling
• Submit any fluid collected in EDTA for cytology and a plain tube for culture

 Air Sac Samples

•  Sampling is indicated in suspected chlamydial, bacterial or fungal infections of air sacs
• Make multiple air-dried direct smear slides at the time of sampling
• Submit any fluid collected in EDTA for cytology and a plain tube for culture

 Faeces

• Sampling is indicated if birds have gastrointestinal signs or are doing poorly.
• Tests available include faecal worm egg count, coccidial oocysts, Giardia parasites and faecal culture