Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My parrot is losing a lot of feathers. What could be the cause?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Female

hello Dr, im having alexandrine parrot which is 7 months old. that is suffered by heavy feather loss

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on August 18th, 2017

The first step id to establish why this is happening. Mainly is there a medical issue or is it behaviour related? Medival issues include infections, mites, vitamin a deficiency etc and these are best ruled out by a vet. If there is no medical reason it is likely self plucling due to stress, or plucking by a cage mate. In such instance you need to look at the environment and address stressors such as other birds, draught, noise, dirty conditions, lack of clean water, poor air quality etc.

Vote icon

3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 19th, 2017

    There are usually three common causes of feather loss that must be considered and ruled out. Mite or bacterial infestation and allergies would be definitively the most common ones which can be easily treated. Behavioral disorders characterized by excessive feather plucking, usually related to stress, is as well quite common. Antibiotics and steroids are usually prescribed for infection. A check up would be required anyway to start investigating and treating these causes.

    Vote icon

    2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Susan England-Foster

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 9th, 2017

    My biggest concern for feather loss is called feather picking and this is usually secondary to stress/behavior. however before you can say it is stress related it is important to rule out a medical issue like skin mites, nutrition or even infection. A vet visit would be best to make sure pickles does not have an underlying issue. If not vet is around I would try working on behavioral things first. you can add more mirrors, large cage, hid toys, make puzzles, keep in quiet area and try to decrease stress. Sometimes environmental change is all you need to decrease feather picking. hope this helps

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my parrot's skin bare under its wings, but feathers are good?
Does your senegal parrot have bare skin under its wings? A Licensed Vet Tech offers tips on monitoring, hygiene, diet, and when to see your vet for healthy feathers.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
What are the signs to tell if my pet bird is male or female?
Wondering about your bird's gender? Dr. Elizabeth, a certified veterinarian, explains how to identify male or female birds using visual differences or genetic tests. Provide a photo, age, and species for accurate guidance.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Do pet birds need vaccinations or regular vet shots for their health?
Curious about bird shots? A Petco vet explains when pet birds get vaccinated, the importance of annual wellness exams, and how to find an expert avian veterinarian.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my cockatiel's wing bleeding after a feather trim?
Cockatiel's bloody wings after pet store visit? A certified vet explains if trimmed feathers or a cut blood feather caused this. Find expert bird care advice here.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My parrot won't stop bouncing and screaming. What's wrong with her?
Is your parrot Susie excessively jumping and screaming with callouses? A trusted veterinarian advises seeking professional help for these sudden behavior changes. Get expert guidance now!
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
New Pet
My green cheek conure's voice is raspy and sneezy. Should I worry?
Is your green cheek conure's voice raspy or sneezy? A certified vet explains common causes like respiratory infections and advises on your bird's health.
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored