discover why your bird is plucking & how to help it now

Feather Plucking Solutions

itchy bird

Hi there! Welcome to our Feather Plucking Solutions Hub. If your bird's been going at those feathers, we understand the worry that comes with it. But don't fret! This page is here to lend a helping hand, offering home-based solutions for feather plucking.

We'll talk about why birds pluck and share some simple tips you can try at home, like which bird collar to use or adding in some extra nutrients. And if you're not sure where to turn next, we'll chat about when it's time to consult with the vet.

Take a moment to explore—it might just ease your feathered friend's discomfort!
great bird care starts with regular checkups

Step 1: Rule Out Medical Issues

Is The Plucking Medical?

First off, let's get your bird a checkup with an avian or exotics vet to rule out any medical reasons behind the feather plucking. Here's what to expect:

  • The Checkup: Your bird gets a thorough physical exam to catch any red flags.
  • Blood Work: Blood work rules out liver problems, hypothyroidism, kidney issues, or other health problems that cause birds to pluck.

We understand that vet visits can be costly, but if the plucking is because of a medical issue, home-based solutions for feather plucking may not be effective. Also, getting a clean bill of health can bring peace of mind and guide you in managing feather plucking, especially if it's considered a "behavioral issue."

We're here to offer support and guidance in managing behavioral feather plucking.
perfect for feather pluckers

Step 2: Plucking Levels: Where Do You Stand?

Personalizing Plucking Recovery

Figuring out your birds plucking severity Is important for making a good recovery plan.

Once we understand your bird's feather plucking patterns, we can come up with a step-by step plan that's just right for your feathery friend.

Check the chart below to identify your birds plucking behavior.

Which picture matches your bird?

mild feather plucking bird

Mild Plucking

  1. My healthy bird over-preens or it has one small area on its body that it plucks. There is no skin damage.
  2. And, I've noticed this behavior within the last year.

Scroll down for mild plucking support.

Parrot

Step 3: Personalized Plucking Recovery Plans

Craft A Recovery Plan

Dive into a rock-solid plucking recovery plan that's a game-changer for most birds. It's all about nailing these four key elements:

  1. Prioritize your bird's wellness, including diet, for recovery.

2. Optimize environment for bird's well-being with things like adequate sleep, enrichment, and more.

3. Identify and remove plucking triggers.

4. Use positive reinforcement to encourage new, healthier behaviors.

Keep in mind that some birds, like rescues or senior birds, may have special needs. Keep scrolling down for tailored advice for these special needs.

NEED HELP?? JUST ASK!
Plucking Cockatoo

FEATHER PLUCKING HELP FOR

SPECIAL NEEDS BIRDS

Life's challenges can affect our avian friends, too. Whether dealing with health issues, the aftermath of trauma, or the natural aging process, our commitment is to provide tailored feather plucking support for a happier and healthier pet.
Parrot health and wellness

Help Your Bird feel Safe

Rescue Birds

Rescue parrots make wonderful companions, each possessing unique personalities & the ability to form loving bonds. When you adopt a rescue, you're not only providing a forever home but also saving a precious life.

Learn how to support them without compromising the trust they place in you. Identify their plucking triggers and help them feel safe.

Need help? We're Here for you!
bird Calcium

Frail bird's need environmental supports

Sick Or Elderly Birds

If your bird is sick or elderly please consult with your avian vet as these birds often need medical care in addition to environmental management to help them feel as comfortable as possible.

The goal now is to get your bird healthy, comfortable and pain-free. Talk to your vet about whether your bird has the stamina to actually wear a bird collar. Heavy collars can add a lot of stress to an already stressed-out bird.

Let's Make Them Comfortable
parrot self-mutilation

Self-Mutilation

Parrot self-mutilation is when a parrot hurts itself by biting or picking at its skin or body parts. It happens more in some parrot types, like cockatoos and African Grey's.

If your parrot is into self-mutilation, it's a serious thing, and you need to team up with a vet and a behavior specialist.

Your vet will check for any health problems causing this behavior and helps treat wounds, while the behavior specialist figures out why it's happening and how to help your feathered friend stop hurting itself.

With both pros on your side, there's a better chance your parrot can get better and be a happy bird again.

I Need Self-Mutilation Help

Please Contact Us With Your Questions

Count on us to be your wingman in bird care! Whether it's a free 15-minute consultation or quick text answers, we're here for you. For in-depth, tailored guidance, booking a behavior consultation is your best bet.