TheTameParrot.com - Say “BYE” To Your Parrot Problems

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There are a lot of concerned bird owners out there who want to know about feather plucking. If left untreated and ignored, it can develop into serious health problems.

Trying to determine the cause is difficult, because it can be the result of an underlying health issue, something in the environment, or simply a behavior problem. Therefore, treating it will take a step-by-step approach which will eliminate possible causes.

MEDICAL ISSUES- The bird must be taken to an experienced avian veterinarian for this. Many vets simply are not experienced enough to identify bird diseases. The vet will do a CBC blood test, and possibly some other tests to isolate the problem. Things they look for are liver disease (common in all birds), Giardiasis (common intestinal infection in cockatiels), or vitamin deficiencies. Low protein or vitamin A deficiencies is common in birds fed an all seed diet, and a major cause for feather problems. A blood feather is also a very common cause for plucking feathers on the wings.

ENVIRONMENT- This can actually be the hardest to figure out. Something in the home could be causing some sort of allergic reaction. One common cause is mold. This spore can cause an itching problem with the skin, and the bird will break off features in order to get to the trouble spot. Other things like new carpet, furniture, or maybe some type of spray or room deodorizer produce toxins that may be causing it. Extremely dry air caused by an overworked dehumidifier could even be the cause. A careful inspection of the home will hopefully turn up clues. A humidifier for dry rooms, or a HEPA filter for dusty areas will greatly improve the living conditions.

POOR DIET- I am convinced that a major cause of many bird problems can be traced directly to their diet. Feather plucking is a great example.

Seed diets lack important vitamins in the development and health of bird feathers. A lack of Beta-carotene (Vitamin A) and protein are chief causes of feather problems, and can easily be discovered with a blood test. Signs of dull feathers or dark, black tips are a good visual sign. Products such as Spirulina are recommended as a safe food additive. This product is high in Vitamin A, Protein and B-12. Be careful to follow the dosage recommendations.

BEHAVIOR- Feather plucking is very common in birds like Cockatoos and African Grey’s. This results from lack of attention, boredom, or sudden changes in the living conditions. New additions to the family like babies, pets, or even a change in the room they are in can upset them.

Some birds enjoy being around people, so placing them in the living areas of your home will help. Others get nervous around constant activity. Changes in food, new toys in the cage, or even new furniture in the home can cause neurotic plucking. So it’s necessary to first examine these issues before proceeding.

The bird must be able to move around and exercise. Too small of a cage can result in mental issues. It’s going to take some careful observation to determine the exact cause of your birds psychological issues. Be patient, give your bird lots of attention, and eventually the plucking will cease.

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