ABSTRACT

Although many veterinarians are comfortable and familiar with the husbandry of companion animals such as dogs and cats, many are much less comfortable, or familiar, with the world of bird keeping. But without an understanding of how birds are kept and fed, it is difficult to assess conditions that lead to disease or make recommendations as to how to maintain a bird’s health and happiness. There are some simple and subtle differences between the husbandry and nutrition of pet birds and aviary birds and the veterinarian needs to be aware of them.