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Seven-year-old budgie's beak growing longer, losing weight and tiring sooner on a seed diet
What they asked
I have a 7-year-old parakeet (budgie) and in the past few months his peak start growing. We start feeding him greens (dandelion), carrot, lettuce since the main food was grains. Lately he lost some weight as well. Normally the cage is opened and he flys thru the house but lately I've notice he gets tired faster. What recommendation do you have for me. I don't have pet insurance and vet visit is expensive.
Sorry to hear about your parakeet. I would recommend seeing a veterinarian to file the beak. A high seed or grain diet can lead to liver disease. The overgrown beak shows a underlying health condition. I would add more toys like forage boxes to help wear the beak down. Cardboard boxes and egg cartons with chewable sticks is a good enrichment. I would find a good pelleted food to be the main diet with fresh leafy greens. Seeds and grains should be occasional treats.
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