Answer

You may need to consider putting him on behavior medication and wearing an e-collar for a while. Also depending on what tests were done, you may need to do more. If he just had a normal chemistry panel done that doesn't include any testing for viral diseases so you may need to look into that. If he just had virals done then doing a chemistry panel would be in order. If he has had all of that then the e-collar and medication may be what is next. Often feather plucking can start as a small irritation which they chew or scratch at and it explodes into major feather plucking incident. They will do this behavior because it gives them a certain feeling that they need more of. Its like us having a small itch on our arm and we end up scratching it raw. We know it hurts but the scratching feels like such a relief. Depending on your vet they may recommend using the e-collar first to allow his feathers to grow back in and then when they are in then put him on the medication while he still has the collar on. Once he has been on the medication for about a month then you can start removing the collar and see what he does. If he starts plucking again then the collar needs to go back on before he causes too much damage and he will have to continue to wear it for a little while longer. There are some birds that have to wear a collar all of the time and others who are just allowed to stay bald. It can be a very difficult situation to correct.

Expert:	Animal Eyes
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Answered:	8/16/2008

Veterinary Technician

Over 10 years working with an exotic vet rehabbing wild birds. Owned by a handsome Moluccan Cockatoo