I have a goffin cockatoo that is with me most of the day because I work out of the house. She gets PLENTY of attention, actually spending more time OUT of her cage than inside. She eats well, gets regular baths. Anyone have any idea why she still chews her feathers and shreds them? Any ideas on how I can get her to stop?
2007-10-24 02:48:40 · 5 answers · asked by christine v 1 in Pets ➔ Birds
I had an African Grey years ago and he did the same. Just out of the blue, started plucking and sticking them on top of his cage. First find out if she is biting the feathers off or actually plucking them out. Bitten off feathers are usually caused by lack of moisture which gives them itchy skin. Take her into the bathroom with you 2 times a week and set her on a perch while you shower. The steam should clear it up and she will stop snipping them off at an attempt to stop the itch. (takes a couple of weeks) It needs to be done soon though, because repeated snipping can become habitual.
For plucking: This doesn't sound like a behavioral issue, so stop and think, is she stressed out? Did you move her cage? Change, replace or take away a toy? Change her food or treats? Has there been excessive traffic in the home? Any construction or even a change of lighting? You'd be suprise how set in their ways a bird can be. Try these before you take her to an avian vet. Best of luck!
2007-10-24 03:05:06 · answer #1 · answered by shannonhouchins 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The parrot may need more fresh fruits and veggies. The parrot mix is not enough. They like all sorts of food that people eat such as potatoes and eggs. You can also buy liquid vitamins to add to their water.
2007-10-24 02:58:32 · answer #2 · answered by Harbinger 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There are several very helpful message boards devoted entirely to birds with experienced people who can help you out. Try www.mytoos.com, www.forthebirds.us, www.secondchancebirds.com register at all three and post your question in all three and you will get tons of great and useful information that is down to earth and works.
2007-10-24 03:26:52 · answer #3 · answered by thefinalresult 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Does she have any toys? They like to play with stuff, chew stuff up, and generally just carry stuff around in their beaks.
2007-10-24 02:52:42 · answer #4 · answered by physiquesorlando 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
bad sign it is deprssed. was on TV some years back.
wants your attention. go to a vet.
2007-10-24 02:56:13 · answer #5 · answered by Michael M 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋