Common Illnesses in African Grey Parrots: Symptoms & Care

Most parrots are susceptible to certain illnesses and behavioural problems, and African Grey parrots are particularly predisposed to some due to their unique physiology and intelligence. These birds are known for their remarkable cognitive abilities, but certain health and behavioural issues may arise that require vigilance from owners. By watching for early signs of illness and understanding potential behavioural causes, you can help keep your African Grey healthy and happy.

Hypocalcaemia & Vitamin D Deficiency in African Grey Parrots

Hypocalcaemia, or low calcium levels in the blood, is a common and serious condition in African Greys. It is the leading cause of seizures and central nervous system disease in this breed due to dietary imbalances, especially from seed-heavy diets lacking calcium. Symptoms often include lack of coordination, imbalance such as falling off perches, sensitivity to noise or sudden movement, convulsions, and seizures.

Immediate veterinary intervention is crucial, where calcium supplements are typically administered and may act quickly. To prevent the development of hypocalcaemia, supplementing your bird's diet with calcium and vitamin D is recommended. Vitamin D plays a vital role in calcium absorption and bone health.

African Greys also require access to natural sunlight or UVB light sources as glass windows filter out most UVA and UVB rays, which the birds need to synthesise vitamin D by preening their feathers outdoors. Symptoms of vitamin D deficiency can include a weakened immune system, soft bones, splayed legs, abnormal beak growth, reproductive issues such as egg binding or soft-shelled eggs, and increased chick mortality in females.

This deficiency may also result from malfunctioning glands that produce vitamin D3 oils applied to feathers and activated by UV light. Monitoring diet and exposure to appropriate lighting conditions are key to preventing these deficiencies.

Feather Problems: Causes and Prevention

A variety of feather-related issues affect African Greys. One unusual sign is the development of red feathers beyond the usual tail feathers, which may indicate damaged feather follicles. These damages can stem from feather plucking, medication side effects, or underlying health concerns such as malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney issues. However, in young birds, slow and gradual appearance of red feathers can sometimes be a harmless genetic mutation.

Feather plucking is a significant behavioural concern and can be either a symptom or a problem itself. It often reflects boredom, stress, loneliness, or inappropriate cage positioning. Allergies or food sensitivities can exacerbate this behaviour, as can nutritional deficiencies in minerals like calcium, manganese, and zinc, which lead to brittle feathers, itchy skin, and feather loss.

Feather plucking may also indicate underlying illness or pain; for example, birds suffering from arthritis may bite at joints. Serious diseases like psittacosis, aspergillosis, or heavy metal poisoning are other potential causes. Heavy metal poisoning often occurs if birds chew on cage bars or items coated with toxic metals. Regular cage inspection and providing safe chewing options help prevent this toxicity.

A notable disease affecting feathers and beak is Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD), a viral infection primarily affecting immune cells. Originally noted in cockatoos, it now also affects African Greys and other parrots. PBFD can lead to feather and beak deformities and secondary infections. While many birds can fight off this disease with strong immune systems, veterinary diagnosis and care are essential.

Weight Loss as a Symptom of Underlying Problems

Unexplained weight loss in African Grey parrots often signifies an underlying health issue. It may be due to dietary imbalances, allergies, or more serious conditions like Proventricular Dilatation Disease (PDD), also known as Macaw Wasting Disease. PDD affects the digestive nervous system, leading to inflammation and poor nutrition absorption. It was once considered fatal, but early detection paired with advancing treatments can improve outcomes.

Since PDD can be present in carriers without obvious symptoms, regular veterinary examinations and attention to weight changes are important for early detection.

Liver Disease: Signs and Risk Factors

Liver disease in African Grey parrots involves fatty infiltration and tissue replacement, leading to progressive organ dysfunction. Female birds are more commonly affected, likely due to hormonal influences related to reproduction. Juvenile birds that have been hand-fed may also be susceptible.

Signs of liver disease include laboured breathing due to enlarged liver space, abdominal distension, changes in droppings colour or consistency, and feather abnormalities including development of red feathers. Additional symptoms might be dry, itchy skin and seizures in advanced stages. Untreated liver disease can compromise blood clotting, so vigilance for bleeding issues after feather loss is critical.

Promoting Responsible African Grey Parrot Care

Maintaining your bird’s health goes beyond preventing illness. Feeding a balanced diet rich in necessary vitamins and minerals, providing opportunities for mental stimulation, social interaction, and safe environmental conditions are essential. Regular health checks at avian-specialist vets ensure early detection of potential health problems.

If you are considering finding an African Grey parrot or already cherish one, ensure your pet has a nurturing environment, and consult vets promptly if you notice unusual behaviour, feather changes, weight loss, or signs of illness.

Conclusion: Vigilance and Compassion for Your African Grey

Many of the illnesses that affect African Grey parrots can seem daunting, but with timely veterinary care and attentive ownership, your bird can often recover or live comfortably. Many African Greys enjoy long lives with no major health problems beyond normal moulting or minor digestive upsets.

Being observant of behavioural and physical changes and acting swiftly will provide the best chance to keep your companion healthy. Remember, your dedication can make all the difference to your intelligent and sensitive African Grey parrot’s wellbeing.