Plucking advice needed, please

[gibson2503]

Attached is a pic of Cosmo, my 5 year old goffins cockatoo. I think she has been plucking for the past few weeks. I sprayed her a few hours ago. Whenever she has been sprayed the newer feathers in the spots where she has been plucking get all matted up for a while like in the pic. If she doesn't take a bath on her own each day, I spray her down. I have been rotating toys, and even get her new toys every couple of weeks. She always has at least 5 toys in her cage at all times. I feed her Zupreem and Nutri-Berries. She refuses to touch fresh fruits and veggies. When I am home, which is most of the time, she has freedom to roam in her cage and on the play top as she pleases. She even goes over on top of the conures' cage and hangs out and plays with them. I leave the cages open. My wife and I spend time playing with her, singing and dancing, etc. How long should I give it before I take her to her avian vet for the plucking? Is there anything else I can do?

 

[AlexW]

I'd say visit a vet asap before any major damage happens

 

[Allee]

I'm sorry Cosmo is having feather problems. If this is the first time she has shown signs of plucking, I would make an appointment with an Avian Vet. A thorough physical exam and a few tests can either pinpoint or rule out medical issues. There are so many possible reasons for plucking, whatever the reason, you don't want it to escalate. You may find something helpful here.

http://www.parrotforums.com/behavioral/52217-plucking-search-answers.html

A lot of birds are reluctant to try fresh vegetables and fruits simply because they are unfamiliar, most birds will eventually learn to like them, given the opportunity. This link has some good tips. Sometimes it's just a matter of preparing the strange new food several different ways until you find one your parrot will accept.

http://www.parrotforums.com/parrot-...7-converting-parrots-healthier-diet-tips.html

Considering your bird's age, hormones may be part of the problem. Dry air in the winter months can cause itchy skin, you may want to check humidity levels.

Please keep us updated. I hope you find an easy resolution for Cosmo's problem, best of luck.

 

[Hawk]

Presence of parasites may be a cause for plucking. Feather Lice is usually noticeable on the back and over wings. The presence of parasites can cause excessive preening.
Feather rot is common viral infection in cockatoo's and causes them to excessively
preen. ( Quoted from my wife, former Vet)