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Avian Feather Picking in Pet Birds


Feather picking (plucking) is one of the most common problems
occurring in pet birds.

The most common body sites for feather picking are the chest,
under the wings, and on the rump. The least common are the flight
feathers.

The lost feathers will usually exhibit some damage from the beak.
Some birds will pluck feathers out while others will chew the
feathers in half or chew the barbs off of the shaft.

Feather mutilation comes in several different patterns. Some
birds bite their feathers off at skin level, leaving nothing but
broken feather shafts and down feathers. Others actually pull
feathers out intact until they're down to bare skin.


Causes of Feather Picking

There are many causes of feather picking.
Feather picking may be caused by:


* Medical problems, rule these out with a trip to the vets.
Check especially for liver or kidney problems.


* Exposure to toxins or irritants, including cigarette smoke
   and air pollution.

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* Intestinal parasites are often associated with feather
   picking, especially in cockatiels.

* Lifestyle stress

* Anxiety Anxiety is often based in sexual frustration.

* Dermatitis (inflammation of the skin) can be the cause or
   effect of plucking. Causes include bacteria (like Staphylococcus)
   and fungi (yeast).

* Folliculitis (inflammation of the feather follicle).
   Bacteria and fungi (yeast) most common. Beak and feather virus
   can be seen in affected follicles.

* Hypothyroidism


* Allergies. Allergic dermatitis unlikely cause of plucking but
   the environment and diet should be screened for potential allergens.

* Zinc toxicity. Zinc may be in the cage itself or the
   hardware used to secure toys and cups.

* Malnutrition. Chronic poor diets can indirectly lead to feather
   plucking due to dry skin and old feathers that haven't molted in
   a long time. Seed-only diets can induce hypovitaminosis A which
   can cause thickening and flaking of the skin.

* Low humidity may exacerbate dry skin.


* Poor wing clips. Some short wing clips can leave sharp edges
   that may rub against the body wall when the wings are closed.


The most common cause of feather picking is psychological.

Occurs when owner not present:
Separation anxiety
Boredom


Occurs when owner present but not paying attention:
Attention seeking behavior


Bird interrupts other behavior to pick:
Obsessive/compulsive disorder
True pruritis


Bird exhibits signs of excess fear or stress:
Systemic illness
Major change in household
Stress associated problem


Problem starts at an extremely young age:
Genetic
Improper preening
Poor early socialization



Many pet bird owners have found that Our Pet Gel
aids and soothes in some cases of feather picking
(mix 1 partgel to 4 parts water in a spray bottle)


The  Pet Gel aids in wound healing and also in
healing of minor burns, cuts and insect bites, for not
only birds, but all small pets.


Our Pet Gel is a soothing blend of Aloe
Vera, formulated to heal, condition and deodorize. It can
be used safely on open wounds and abrasions.



Ingredients
Chondrus Crispus,  Propylene Glycol, Chamomile, Aloe Vera


   Find Out More About Our Pet Gel Here


Why Pure Air is So Important for Your Pet Birds


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