From the ICARE conference in Lisbon, April 2026
Authors: Christiana Hebel, Tom Bailey
In modern falconry, especially in high-performance environments like racing, there is increasing pressure for birds to recover quickly and perform at their best. As a result, so-called “multi-medicine cocktails” (1) have become very popular. These products typically combine several drugs—such as antibiotics, antifungals (2), and antiprotozoals (3)—into one treatment. At first this approach seems practical: one product that basically covers everything. However, this convenience comes with serious risks that every falconer should understand.
What are these cocktails?
Multi-medicine cocktails are fixed combinations of several medications given at once, often without confirming what disease the falcon actually has. They were originally developed for other species (like pigeons), but are now widely used in falcons.
Why are they a problem?
1. Lack of proper diagnosis
Using multiple drugs without knowing the cause of illness can mask symptoms. The falcon may seem to improve temporarily, but the real problem may remain untreated or worsen over time.
2. Stress on the bird’s body
Combining several medications can put unnecessary strain on the liver and kidneys. Over time, this can harm the falcon’s overall health and reduce its long-term performance.
3. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR)
One of the biggest concerns is the development of drug-resistant bacteria. When antimicrobials are overused or misused, they become less effective. This doesn’t just affect falcons—it can impact other animals and even humans. Falcons may become carriers of resistant pathogens.
4. False sense of control
There is a common belief that “more drugs = better protection.” In reality, this can create a dangerous illusion. Instead of gaining control over disease, we may actually lose control by delaying proper diagnosis and treatment.
5. Reduced veterinary oversight
In some regions, these products are easily available without prescription. This means treatments may be used without proper guidance, reducing accountability and increasing the risk of misuse.
The bigger picture: medicine or convenience?
There is a growing shift from diagnosis-based veterinary medicine to a more convenience-driven approach. Instead of asking “What does this bird actually need?”, the question becomes “Which product covers everything?”
This shift can lead to poorer outcomes, despite good intentions.
Ethical considerations
Falcons are highly valued animals, both culturally and economically. However, we must ask: Are we always acting in the bird’s best interest?
Treating without diagnosis, exposing birds to unnecessary drugs, and prioritizing rapid performance over long-term health raises important welfare concerns.
What should we do instead?
– Focus on diagnosis first: Identify the cause before treating.
– Use targeted therapy: Give only the medication that is truly needed.
– Avoid unnecessary antimicrobials: Especially without veterinary guidance.
– Work closely with veterinarians: Ensure responsible prescribing.
– Promote awareness: Educate falconers about the risks of overmedication.
Final thought
These drugs may seem effective today, but the real question is: Will they still work in the future if we continue using them this way?
Responsible use of medicines protects not only individual falcons but the future of falconry itself.
Translator’s note:
The author describes personal experiences with administering medications to falcons and other falconid raptors. However, under our conditions, these drugs are also encountered in other species of birds of prey, which may lead to additional problems. Illustrative examples include the described toxicity of higher doses of Vitamin B6 in falcons, as well as the well-documented toxicity of certain pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory drugs in vultures (e.g. Diclofenac).
1 – A typical example is the combined medications for falcons produced by an unnamed company from Australia and imported from the UAE.
2 – antifungal medications
3 – medications against lower forms of parasites (e.g. coccidia)
