Parrot Unable to Stand: Causes & Treatment

The Reasons for Parrots Having Deformed Legs

Parrots with deformed legs often suffer from conditions like rickets or osteomalacia, or exhibit twisted legs or lameness. These issues are usually a result of nutritional deficiencies in the parrot's body, particularly a lack of trace minerals and calcium.

1. Congenital Causes:

If the mother parrot lacks vitamin D3 during pregnancy, the deficiency can be passed on to the eggs. Once the chicks hatch, if they do not receive adequate supplements of trace minerals and calcium, they may develop deformed legs.

2. Postnatal Influences:

Even if the chicks receive proper nutrition, factors like an uneven breeding box with a slope can lead to twisted legs. Additionally, if a parrot has rickets, its legs and wings are prone to fractures. Being constantly pressed by other birds can also cause fractures.

For parrots suffering from malnutritionrelated deformed legs or fragility, owners must ensure they provide a balanced diet rich in the necessary nutrients, especially vitamin D and calcium. If fractures occur, surgical correction using foam boards, cosmetic sponges, or silk wire may be necessary. Here's how to proceed:

Prepare foam boards, cosmetic sponges, or silk wire. Cut two holes in the foam board and secure it around the fractured leg of the chick. During the wrapping process, ensure that the chick's ability to eat and move is not restricted to avoid exhaustion. Avoid using adhesive tape to secure the foam board to prevent damage to the parrot's skin and feathers. Also, make sure the chick's legs are kept parallel. Continue to wear the foam board for a week to ensure a complete recovery and prevent refracture.

Pet Care Tip from Oxygen Pet Doctor:

Deformed legs like twisted feet in parrots are often seen in chicks. As parrots mature, their skeletons harden, and twisted legs are less common. If foot issues do arise in adult parrots, they are more likely to be infections rather than structural problems. Therefore, it's crucial for owners to focus on preventive measures for chicks, ensuring they receive a balanced diet to prevent deformities and other health issues.