Is your feathered pal approaching her golden years? Just like people, birds will go through changes over time. You’ll want to make some adjustments to Polly’s care plan as she ages. A Carrollton, GA veterinarian discusses senior bird care in this article from All About Animals Veterinary Services, serving the Villa Rica, GA, area.

Common Health Issues

Older birds can develop a variety of medical issues, such as gout, fatty liver disease, tumors, diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and kidney failure. Watch for signs of sickness. Some of these include poor feather condition, red or inflamed feet, trouble walking, respiratory issues, changes in waste, increased or decreased thirst or appetite, and unusual behavior, posture or vocalizations. Other red flags include weakness, diarrhea, weight changes, seizures, sneezing, wheezing, egg binding, discolored or ruffled feathers, bad breath, tremors, dizziness, or fainting. Contact your vet immediately if you notice anything unusual.

Diet

As Polly ages, she’ll naturally become less active, and will burn less calories. This will make it easy for her to put on weight. Your vet may recommend adjusting your feathered friend’s diet to include more produce, less seeds and nuts, and possibly supplements. It’s also important to make sure your little buddy is getting enough Vitamin A. Ask your vet for specific advice. You’ll also want to arrange Polly’s dishes so they’re easy for her to reach.

Lighting

Your feathered buddy may develop vision issues, such as cataracts. Make sure her room has adequate lighting. Polly will also benefit from having some exposure to natural light.

Comfort

Your winged pal may start sitting on her bowls instead of her perches. This is often a matter of comfort. If Polly is getting chubby, as many older birds do, sitting on her normal perches may strain her feet. Wrapping perches in vet tape can help with this. Your cute pet may also appreciate having flat perches, corner perches, and perch stands.

Breed Research

Polly’s breed can play a huge role in how and when she ages. Zebra finches may become seniors at just four, while Macaws may live to be over 60. Some breeds are also prone to developing specific diseases. For instance, calcium deficiency is fairly common in African Greys. Do plenty of research, and ask your vet for specific care tips. Contact All About Animals Veterinary Services, serving the Villa Rica, GA, area, anytime. We’re here to help!