Accepted Answer

Hello. This can sure be a tough time for them. Often they get cranky and out of sorts because the new pin feathers coming in make them itchy and uncomfortable. One of the best things you can do for him is to remember that, if he does get cranky with you and just cut him some slack for now. Obviously you are already concerned for his comfort so that is not probably anything I really needed to suggest but just thought I'd throw it in anyway. As for body comfort, you can increase his baths or showers. One everyday is not too much so long as he never goes to bed damp in the evenings. If he actually showers with you, this might be harder but adding aloe juice, straight from a plant can work wonders for skin and feather condition and not just at molting times. It's good all year round. If he goes in the shower, perhaps you can add some to a mister bottle anyway and mist him with some in the shower. Just don't use any over the counter product. It needs to come right from a plant. You would cut an arm from the plant, slit it open and mix the gooey center in the warm water. Just don't let him have access to the plant itself or the rind because it can cause stomach upset. As for diet, there is not a lot you can do, assuming he is already on a diet that has lots of fresh fruits and fresh and steamed veggies, leafy greens and so on. If he is extremely hand friendly and likes to be petted, you can try helping him with the pins that are up near his head and face and the ones on the back of his neck that he cannot reach to preen himself. If he had a cage mate, they would probably help him but if he doesn't, he may enjoy your help. You can easily tell the pin feathers that still have the sheath on them as they are quite stiff and sticky. If the sheath is ready to come off, you can very gently, scrape with your fingernail, always scraping towards the end of the feather. But, if you get onto one that is still to tender and/or if you happen to bump one, pushing it backwards, into his skin, he may let you know real quick how unhappy that makes him. Basically if he is in good health otherwise, a molt should pass without too much upset other than the foul mood for awhile. I hope these suggestions will help but if you have any more questions, just let me know. Patricia

Expert:	Patricia
Pos. Feedback:	99.9 %
Accepts:
Answered:	3/18/2008

Parrot C&onsultant

Published author, free lance bird behaviorist, adviser to the parrots at Sarasota Jungle Gardens.