Health and husbandry of companion parrots

Parrots are being more commonly sold in the pet industry and veterinary teams are likely to be increasingly presented with avian patients for either routine examinations or illness. It is important to be able to make a full assessment of the individual. This includes physical assessments, home environment and husbandry care that is appropriate to the species presented. It is also important to understand how to care for parrots in a veterinary environment by following correct husbandry advice. There are many different species and families of parrot being kept as companion animals and it is unrealistic to know them all. However, this article should provide guidance and understanding of what to look for to aid care and recovery of parrots.

Looking after the health of parrots occurs even before the patient presents to the veterinary clinic. It is important for front-of-house staff to discuss appropriate carry cages with owners prior to the parrot's veterinary appointment to prevent stress, injury or escape. A safe carrier should be an appropriate size for the patient and should have hard, sturdy sides made from either plastic, acrylic or wire (Figure 1). A perch should be provided, and the bottom of the carrier should have an absorbent bedding such as newspaper or a towel. The door to the carrier should be large enough to allow easy removal of the bird, and it is recommended that the cage be covered with a light towel or sheet during travel to the clinic (Fear Free LLC, 2021). Carriers made of thin wood, wicker or cardboard are inappropriate as parrots may chew their way out of the box (Figure 2).