My Parrotlet is Stripping His Feathers

by Lisa
(Ayer, Ma)

Hello! I have a 1 1/2 year old Parrotlet that started to strip his feather from too much preening. I read that it could be caused from boredom. I didn’t take him out of the cage one weekend because I was sick and that’s when it all started. Since then, he is out of his cage and playing multiple times a day. I also have gotten some foraging type toys. But, he won’t kick the habit. How can I get him to stop? Thank you for any advise!!

Answer:

Hi Lisa,

Unfortunately, feather plucking or stripping can be serious and is a very difficult habit to break. It could also be the result of an illness or poor diet, so I recommend speaking with your avian veterinarian about the issue.

I’m sorry we couldn’t be of more help to you, but an issue such as this is best left to a veterinary professional.

God bless,

Michelle Jay