Birds

Teresa Manucy, DVM

What is Beak and Feather Disease in Birds?Psittacine beak and feather disease (PBFD) is also known as psittacine circovirus (PCV) or Psittacine Circoviral Disease (PCD). This is a viral condition responsible for damage to the beak, feathers, and nails as well as the immune system of infected birds. PBFD disease was first recognized during the 1970s in Australian cockatoos and has affected over 50...

Teresa Manucy, DVM

Budgie Level of CareBeginner Budgie Lifespan10-12 years Budgie CompanionshipBudgies are a great choice for beginning bird parents. They are adaptable to a wide range of care conditions, not too demanding in their day-to-day care, and can be trained to be handled with minimal stress. When it comes to companionship, budgies are flock birds that enjoy the company of other birds. The ideal number of...

Laurie Hess, DVM, DABVP

Backyard chickens are extremely popular as pets, even in urban areas. They are fun, interactive, entertaining animals that have the added benefit of providing tasty, fresh eggs. While chickens can be wonderful pets, their care isn’t simple. They actually have very specific needs that, if not met, can lead to a host of health problems. What should a prospective owner know before getting a...

Sarah Wooten, DVM

Let’s face it: Easter chicks are adorable. There is something about that tiny, fluffy, peeping magical creature that just begs you to buy her and give her as a gift to someone you love. I get it. Even though the few moments of bliss to be had cuddling a baby chicken are straight-up heaven, the question begs to be asked: is it a good idea to buy a baby chicken for Easter? This vet says probably...

Melissa Witherell, DVM

The following content may contain Chewy links. PetMD is operated by Chewy. Over the last 18 years, chickens have become increasingly popular as pets in suburban and urban areas. Historically, the domestic chicken is believed to descend from the red jungle fowl in southern China and Indonesia. Today, there are hundreds of chicken breeds around the world. Some are primarily used for egg or meat...

Sandra C. Mitchell, DVM, DABVP

Have you ever seen some ducks swimming contentedly in a park pond and wondered to yourself whether you can keep ducks as pets? Well, you are not alone. More and more people are bringing ducks home to be part of their daily lives. If you think pet ducks might be the right fit for you, here are some tips for duck care and issues to consider before adopting a duck as a pet. Check Your Local LawsIf...