Diseases of African Gray Parrots

African Grey Parrots are simple yet beautiful creatures. They make great pets and can live a very long time---50 to 70 years---as long as they don't fall ill. There are a number of diseases that African Grey Parrots can contract that could shorten their normal lifespan.

  1. Aspergillosis

    • Aspergillosis is a fungal disease found in African Greys. It has many symptoms, including weight loss and respiratory ailments. It is caused by ingestion of dead leaves or spoiled vegetation. The only treatment for this disease is surgical removal of the fungus ball. However, it is very uncommon for parrots to undergo this type of surgery, so euthanasia is typically suggested by veterinarians.

    Macaw Wasting Disease

    • Macaw Wasting Disease is fatal. Symptoms include weight loss, seizures, and undigested seed in droppings. This disease is highly contagious to other birds. It is believed to be airborne. Treatments can prolong life only for a few years.

    Hypocalcaemia Syndrome

    • Hypocalcaemia syndrome is another disease that causes seizures in African Greys. The seizures occur due to lack of calcium in the bird's blood stream. This disease is treatable; veterinarians prescribe calcium gluconate to restore calcium levels back to normal. Providing your African Grey with calcium and Vitamin D substances can help prevent Hypocalcaemia syndrome.

    Self Mutilation

    • A rather strange behavioral disease is self mutilation. Due to the high intelligence level of these parrots, self mutilation occurs when the birds become bored. Self-mutilating activities include plucking their own feathers and picking their skin. There is no known treatment for self mutilation in African Greys.