Incorporating the Veterinary Behaviorist: A New Model for the Diagnosis and Treatment of a Feather Damaging Pet Parrot

摘要

Over the last 3 decades, avian veterinarians have proposed many diagnostic tests, etiologies, and treatment options for feather damaging behaviors in pet psittacine birds. The tendency has been to differentiate between "medical" and "psychogenic" reasons for this disorder; however, it is becoming apparent that the distinction between what is physical and what is behavioral is unclear. Thus, it is surprising that throughout the years there have been few opportunities for veterinary behaviorists to participate in the study of feather-damaging, and its pathogenesis and treatment. We propose that a team including both avian and behavioral veterinary specialists is a preferred model for diagnosis and treatment of feather damaging behavior. Each specialty benefits from the expertise of the other, and collaboration is essential if we are to continue to make headway with this complicated and frustrating disease.