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I have a parrotlet question...she is a blue mutation. I thought she was molting at first but it has been 2 1/2 weeks and there is no improvement. I have been feeding her chicken, veggies and seed. At first she slept a lot, now she is more active, but still really scruffy looking. Should I be more concerned and take her to an avian vet?

Submitted: 162 days and 6 hours ago.
Category: Bird
Value: $17
Status: AWAITING CUSTOMER ACTION
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Optional Information

Age: 2; Female; Breed: blue parrotlet

Already Tried:
Extra protein (chicken/boiled) fruit veggies removing from stress (her cage mate is really crabby-he does not beat on her, but yells alot at the little yellow male next to them.

Accepted Answer

Dear XXXXXX:

 

Thank-you for your parrotlet question.

 

In general, 2 1/2 weeks is really not a very long time for a moult. The length depends on a lot of factors, and it is important to look for signs of change, as in new feathers emerging, to signify that the moult is in a proper sequence.

 

I am on the East coast, and have seen many cases of the protozoal parasite called giardia in my scruffy, seemingly last-forever-moulting parrotlet patients. This is a condition that requires a diagnosis by your veterinarian. Here is a link to help you find one: www.aav.org/vet-lookup.

 

You are on the right track and doing well by adding in all those foods to her diet. However, I would encourage you to also add pellets (to make up approx. 50 % of total diet). I like Harrison's (http://www.harrisonsbirdfoods.com/), but you could try any organic, dye-free pellet, and it would be an overall improvement. Also, mist her daily with warm water, and if the environment is dry, try increasing the humidity.

 

If you have more questions please click on 'reply'. If you find this answer helpful please click on the green ACCEPT icon. Bonuses and positive feedback are always appreciated.

 

Good-luck to you,

Dr. Lisa

 

 

 

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Expert: Dr.Lisa
Pos. Feedback: 100.0 %
Accepts: 
Answered: 6/14/2009

Bird Vet. Former Zoo Birdkeeper

24 yrs of small animal vet practice. Dog, cat and parrot caretaker for 33 yrs! Zookeeper for 1 yr.

161 days and 22 hours ago.

Reply

I have been feeding them nutri berries crunched up for parakeets...The others are doing wiell on them.

Posted by Dr.Lisa 161 days and 4 hours ago.

Answer

Dear XXXXXX::

 

It is wonderful that you have them started on Nutriberries, but in the long run, this type of diet will need supplementation as well. Although they appear to be doing well, their lifespan should approach 20+ yrs, so you've got a long ways to go with them.

 

Maybe part of her cage-mate's crabbiness is due to diet?

 

It is at least worth a try...

 

Here is a link ( http://www.featheredfitness.com/cat/Seven+Layer+Salad.html ) for the '7 layer Salad' that I make for my birds. Lots of work , lots of expense, lots of waste, but LOTS of fun for the birds. You will need to make major adjustments on the size of these foods...

 

I hope this helps!

Dr. Lisa

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