discover why your bird is plucking and how to help it

Feather Plucking Solutions Hub

Choosing a bird collar for feather plucking

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?

Assessing Feather Plucking Severity

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.

Step 3: Personalized Plucking Recovery Plans

Craft A Recovery Plan

A solid plucking recovery plan, effective for most birds, should cover four key elements:

  1. Prioritize your bird's wellness for recovery.
  2. Restore your bird's overall health.
  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.

Let's Jump-Start Recovery
cockatoo white parrot

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.

RESCUE BIRD HELP
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.

Help for weakened Birds
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 checks for any health problems causing the 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