Common Sense About Parrot Dust

All parrots produce keratin, which is material that sheaths the feathers. As the feathers mature the keratin dries and becomes brittle, and birds preen away the keratin to allow the new feather to open. Some produce keratin more than others. It is a protective coating that helps to waterproof the birds feathers. It may also have other protective qualities that we are not aware of.

Cockatiels, cockatoos, african greys, and other birds similar to these are classified as powder down birds. They create more keratine that other species.

Some people are highly allergic to keratin and some are even hypersensitive to keratin, which can result in asthma, allergies or breeder’s lung.

We have had several sets of parrotlets dropped off to us due to the owners being allergic. Parrotlets are the smallest of the parrot family so size does not matter!

Although it can be annoying, it is something we need to learn to live with if we are going to keep parrots. There are, however, a few tricks that may help to keep the dust levels down for those of us that are not allergic but like to keep powder down birds as pets.

A hepa filter system will help to clean the air around the area where the birds stay and will make a healthier environment for everyone. It should help keep the dust levels down as long as the hepa filter is changed regularly.

When changing your birds news papers or cage liners, spray them with water first. This will help to keep the dust from dissipating into the air when the papers are stirred. Make sure to toss the paper in the garbage and tie up the bag right away.

Daily baths will help but never use soap on your birds, even if it claims it is safe for birds! Don’t forget to change your furnace filter often also.

All these things will create a cleaner environment for both you and your birds.