Death is usually due to 2ndry bacterial, fungal, protozoal infections or other viral agents. Case 4 SIG PRE HX PE DDX DP DX RX PRO Congo African Grey parrot, male, adult Extensive feather loss over back and chest, owner constantly finding feathers in bottom of cage Recently obtained form large aviary, only bird in household, began to pull out feathers within 3 months of purchase Multiple feathers in bottom of cage, rachi broken, barbs chewed, back and chest have large number of pin feathers, devoid of any health mature feathers, skin appears irritated, normal feathers located on the head, wings and tail. No ectoparasites noted on exam. Bird appears to have experienced some weight loss. Feather picking, PBFD, need to address all of ddx listed under feather picking Exhaustive history, DNA probe for PBFD, CBC, profile, Radiographs, chlamydial screen, fecal Gram stain, fecal flotation, evaluate diet.
History reveals that bird was recently purchased as a pet for a single professional woman.
The owner smoke. Contact time appears to be minimal, nights and weekends. Bird was previously in large aviary with other African Greys Diet was considered to be adequate but appetite seemed to be poor. PBFD test negative. Whole body Rads revealed slightly enlarged liver margins.