Treatment for Grey Parrots Losing Feathers
While molting is a common and natural occurrence for most birds, the problem of losing feathers is not. If you can see patches of your parrot's skin, it's time to take action and treat the cause of the problem. Grey parrots generally lose feathers because they are plucking them. The reasons why parrots pluck feathers can range from malnutrition to boredom and each case needs to be treated before symptoms become worse.
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Boredom
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Greys are intelligent animals that need mental stimulation. A lack of toys and inadequate activities might cause your Grey to become bored and pluck its feathers for entertainment. Your Grey may also be spending too much time in the cage, or may be in a cage that is too small. According to the website AvianWeb, plucking increases when birds are kept in small cages. If your Grey is to spend a good deal of time in a cage, it should be big enough for the bird to flap its wings comfortably.
Stress
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Stress is one of the most common causes of feather plucking. Sometimes stress can be eased simply by placing the bird's cage in a location that is not in the center of activity. Some cases of stress may need to be treated with sedatives and antidepressants, according to AvianWeb.
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Malnutrition
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Dietary imbalances can contribute to your Grey plucking its feathers. Your parrot needs a healthy diet with a variety of foods--more than the packaged seed you buy. Greys can eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, including carrots, bananas, apples, berries and leafy greens.
Poor Health
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You should have your parrot checked by a veterinarian to rule out any medical reasons it might be losing it feathers. Infections, allergies, hormone imbalances and systemic diseases are some of the reasons your parrot could be plucking and/or losing its feathers.
Location and Light
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The physical environment surrounding your Grey is critical to its health and happiness. Birds do much better when they can see activity without being in the center of it. Birds enjoy sunshine and a well-lit environment. Dark corners are likely to depress them. Some birds improve greatly when placed in environments where they have sufficient light, reports the website GetPetAdvice.com.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit African Grey Parrot image by mickkid from Fotolia.com
