Vitamin D is an important nutrient for human health, but did you know that it's just as important for your pet birds? Just like humans, birds need vitamin D for strong bones and a healthy immune system. However, vitamin D deficiency is a common health problem in pet birds.
Reasons for Vitamin D Deficiency in Birds:
There are two main reasons for vitamin D deficiency in pet birds: lack of exposure to sunlight and a poor diet. Birds that are kept indoors with limited exposure to sunlight are at a higher risk for vitamin D deficiency. A lack of exposure to sunlight, as vitamin D is produced in the skin when exposed to sunlight. Sunlight is the best source of vitamin D. Birds that are fed a diet of mostly seeds are also at a higher risk for vitamin D deficiency. This is because seeds are not a good source of vitamin D. Vitamin D is found in certain foods therefore hard to obtain from diet. (vitamin is is mostly in Fishes and fortified food) Additionally, some medical conditions can lead to vitamin D deficiency, such as liver or kidney disease.
Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency
There are several symptoms of vitamin D deficiency in pet birds. These include soft bones, weakness, muscle atrophy, and a decreased appetite. If you notice any of these symptoms in your bird, it's important to take them to the vet for a check-up. Vitamin D deficiency can be a serious health problem, but it is treatable with sunlight and/or a change in diet.
Importance of Vitamin D in Birds
Vitamin D is essential for many aspects of health in our pet birds, yet vitamin D deficiency is a common problem. Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium, which is important for strong bones and muscles. A vitamin D deficiency can cause weak, brittle bones, and muscle weakness. Vitamin D is also important for a healthy immune system and proper organ function.
How to prevent Vitamin D in birds?
1) Spending time in the sunlight
2) Pellets ( use as a supplement)
3) Vitamin D Supplement with vet recommendation
Aviary for Sunlight
An outside aviary is an excellent way to keep birds happy, give them sunlight, and safety. Aviary isn't for everyone and requires time, space, and money. However an aviary full of bird toys and perches is a great way for any parrot to receive sunlight and exercise.
If an aviary isn't in the cards, a flight suit for avians is a great way to take your bird out for a walk on sunny days.
Monika Sangar
www.pdsparrotshop.com
www.pdsnonprofit.org