Last Updated on by Catherine Tobsing
Are there any special things to do to help my parrot? He is 48 and has developed cataracts.
I am keeping him in the same cage and not changing things around but he seems to fall off his perch more than usual. Suggestions?
Catherine responded,
Thank you for caring for your elderly Amazon parrot.
Amazons do tend to live longer than other parrots and thus also can start to suffer from aging more visibly from arthritis, cataracts, and other issues.
Cataracts in parrots can be removed but they are costly and highly risky to deal with the surgery and recovery.
Usually preparing a cage to offer easy travel is a better option.
Before the bird loses more of its sight, please get it settled into a suitable cage with perches and toys that it may be living with for the rest of its life.
A cage between 20″ and 30″ wide is best so the bird can easily reach everything. Attaching rope perches that lead to and from the bird’s main seating area will help with controlling falling.
The medium 3/4″ to large 1 1/4″ thick ropes are easier to hang onto than smooth dowel perches. If you prefer wood, please consider natural wood perches so they are not so slippery.
Keeping the bird’s cage in the family room where you and other family members can be heard, even if your bird cannot see them will be comforting.
Please leave some background music or radio for company when you are out. Without sight, your bird will enjoy the sounds for comfort.
Your bird can enjoy a good life even without full sight, as long as its family members are still around and attentive.
Written by Catherine Tobsing
Approved by Mitch Rezman
From Google’s Gemini,
Unfortunately, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer for treating cataracts in parrots.
The best course of action depends on several factors, including the severity of the cataracts and your parrot’s overall health. Here’s a breakdown of the possibilities:
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Surgery: This is the most effective treatment for cataracts, but it’s also the most invasive. Avian veterinarians or veterinary ophthalmologists can perform cataract surgery on parrots, though it’s considered a moderately difficult procedure. They’ll be able to discuss the risks and benefits with you to determine if it’s the right option for your bird.
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Management: In some cases, if the cataracts are mild and not causing significant vision problems, surgery might not be necessary. Your avian vet can recommend ways to manage your parrot’s condition, which might involve environmental enrichment to help them navigate despite vision loss.
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Limited medical options: It’s important to note that, unlike humans, there aren’t any medications or supplements proven to reverse cataracts in parrots. There have been anecdotal reports of dietary changes helping, but these lack scientific backing, and consulting a vet is crucial before making any dietary modifications.
Here’s the key takeaway: Schedule an appointment with an avian veterinarian or veterinary ophthalmologist. They can examine your parrot, determine the best course of treatment, and answer any questions you have about cataracts and their impact on your feathered friend.
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2 Jun 2024This is in response to the article on cataracts
My 38 LSC cockatoo has a cataract in her left eye. She had an eye ulcer in her right eye that finally healed but left her blind in that eye. I took my too to NC State Vet Hospital. I was told that her age they didn’t recommend trying to remove the cataract. But as time as gone on, the cataract has begun fading and she has a little eyesight back. O was told that would probably happen. That is a good thing but does cause some inflammation. She will be on a prescription anti inflammatory for the rest of her life. But I can tell that she can see some out of her left eye now. I had no idea that cataracts faded. Loved ypir article.
Mitch Rezman
2 Jun 2024We appreciate your feedback and kind words patchescocobird
Best
MitchR