Nutrition - Vitamin A Deficiency in Pet Birds

According to many avian veterinarians, Vitamin A deficiency is the most common health problem in pet birds. Vitamin A is one of the essential nutrients for our birds. Vitamin A can be found in red, yellow and green vegetables and fruits. Vitamin A is necessary for the health of tissues such as skin, the digestive system, the respiratory system and all the vital organs. Without sufficient Vitamin A, our pets can develop unhealthy skin and feathers also. They become more susceptible to sinus infections and may suffer from liver and kidney dysfunction. Vitamin A deficiency can cause feather discoloration, motor disturbances, reproductive problems and many other health problems.

A seed only diet is often a poor source of Vitamin A. Adding pellets may help, but then how do you know for sure your bird is eating enough pellets? Some healthy food sources for Vitamin A are carrots, yams and sweet potatoes, peppers, broccoli, mangoes, kale, spinach and dandelion greens.

A recommended blended diet for feeding your bird might consist of a really top-notch seed blend, a good pelleted food, and lots of fresh fruits and vegetables to round it all out. Our birds need a nutritious healthy diet just as we do.

[Editor's Note: This article is not intended to cure any vitamin related medical problems your bird may have. If unsure about your bird's diet or health, talk with your avian veterinarian.]

by Debra Morgan C.A.S.