Feather Picking |
| Q: My parrot has started pulling out his feathers. Why do you think he is doing this and what can I do to stop this annoying behavior before he goes bald? A: Feather picking is a very common problem in avian medicine. A thorough history and physical exam are very important as the list of possible causes is very long. A list of possible differentials would include: stress related, boredom, overcrowding, environmental changes, reproductive frustration, allergies, external or internal parasites, thyroid deficiencies, bacterial infections, malnutrition, liver disease, cancer, viral, systemic disease, and many, many others. As you can see the possibilities are endless. Many of these causes can easily be ruled in or out during a routine office call. Diagnostic tests such as a stool analysis, feather follicle analysis, and blood work may be necessary to determine the actual cause of the feather picking. After a diagnosis is made a plan for treatment can be established so that our feathered friend can again be fully feathered. |
