Give a Dog a Bone: Blogs About Pets and Toys
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Give a Dog a Bone: Blogs About Pets and Toys

Hello world! My name is Mary, and my dog is my best friend. His name is Bandit, and he's a spunky little rescue. He hates to be left alone, and I'll admit that he once broke through a screen, walked several miles to where I was, and sat outside the cafe waiting for me. Since I work from home and don't go out often, I spend a lot of time with him. However, in most cases, owners would need to crate train their dogs in those situations. Anyway, wherever you are in your relationship with your dog, I hope you find what you need in this blog. It's going to be a mixture of fun tips, ideas, and facts. Enjoy!

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Give a Dog a Bone: Blogs About Pets and Toys

Ways To Manage The Symptoms Of Feather Destructive Behavior While Waiting For A Course Of Treatment From Your Vet

Amber Knight

There are a number of reasons why your bird may be showing feather destructive behavior. This means that your bird is purposely damaging or plucking out their feathers. Some of the causes include poor nutrition, boredom, a disease, nesting frustration, fear, stress or anxiety. If your bird is plucking or damaging their feathers, it is important to take them to a vet to attempt to have the problem diagnosed and solved. However, with so many possible causes, it can take time for a vet to narrow down the cause. Here are a few ways that you can help to manage the symptoms while waiting for a course of treatment for feather destructive behavior in your bird:

Change Your Bird's Diet

When you take your bird to the vet, one of the first things they are likely to do is to ask you about your bird's diet and suggest that you change it up. The most common reason why birds have feather destructive behavior is due to malnutrition, a lack of the right vitamins, too much sodium or poor nutrition. If your vet suggests you change up the bird's diet, they will likely recommend a food to try. If they have not yet made this recommendation, look for bird feed that contains omega 3 fatty acids and is low in sodium, carbohydrates, and sugar. 

Avoid Behaviors That Trigger Nesting Frustration

Another reason why your bird may have feather destructive behavior is that they are experiencing nesting frustration. Nesting frustration essentially means that they are sexually frustrated and possibly looking to mate. You make matters worse when you stimulate the bird, such as cuddling the bird or stroking their feathers. Avoid these behaviors to help minimize the amount of frustration your bird experiences.

Occupy Your Bird

The last common reason why your bird may have feather destructive behavior is that your bird feels bored or ignored. Make sure your bird has the opportunity to exercise, has access to toys, and is included in some of your family activities. All of these steps can help to cure boredom and depression in birds. This may help to minimize feather destructive behavior or stop it altogether. 

Feather destructive behavior can harm your bird's appearance, feathers, and skin. It can lead to other skin ailments and even infections. It can take time to determine why your bird has feather destructive behavior. However, changing your bird's diet, avoiding behaviors that trigger the urge to nest and occupying your bird can help to minimize symptoms until the reason why is determined and an applicable course of treatment can be given for your bird. 


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