Fatty Liver Disease in Birds: Hepatic Lipidosis

What is hepatic lipidosis in birds? Obesity is one of the biggest health concerns in pet birds, and one of the most common health problems associated with obesity is fatty liver disease, also known as hepatic lipidosis. This disease causes large amounts of fat to be deposited in the liver. When the normal liver cells are replaced with fat, the liver eventually loses the ability to function properly. This serious condition is most common in Cockatoos, Cockatiels, Budgies, Amazons, Lovebirds, and Quakers.

Hepatic Lipidosis Causes

What triggers hepatic lipidosis? Fatty liver disease or hepatic lipidosis has several possible causes, including a nutritional deficiency, a diet high in fat, overindulgence, thyroid disease, genetics, and diabetes.

What are the Symptoms of Fatty Liver Disease in Birds?

How to tell if your bird has liver disease? There are several different signs that a bird has fatty liver disease. Some signs include lethargy, depression, loss of appetite, overgrown beaks, difficulty breathing, diarrhea, and abnormal or unhealthy looking feathers. Because a bird's liver literally replaces itself with fat, the liver usually becomes enlarged.

Fatty Liver Treatment in Birds

How do you treat fatty liver in birds? If a bird is diagnosed with fatty liver disease, the treatment will probably involve a diet and lifestyle change. Birds should be switched to a low-fat diet because a seed-only diet does not provide adequate nutrition for a bird. Often, a low-fat diet involves an extruded food, plus fresh fruit and vegetables. Supportive care might also be needed.

Prevention

Because fatty liver disease is a serious and fatal condition, prevention is the best way to protect your bird. Prevention includes a balanced, nutritious diet and plenty of exercise. Proper nutrition for a bird includes variety and the right balance of certain foods. Feeding birds only seeds or treats is not healthy and will not provide them with adequate nutrition.

To solve malnutrition issues, choose an extruded food for the base of a bird's diet. These foods are already balanced with grains, seeds, vegetables, and fruits, plus they are fortified with vitamins and minerals. Then supplement the bird's diet with fresh fruits, vegetables, treats, and seeds.

It is also important for birds to receive plenty of activity and exercise. You can help prevent inactivity and obesity by providing your bird with fun exercise options. Encourage your bird to climb, walk, and play with toys. These activities will reduce boredom, keep birds at a healthy weight, and lessen the chance of disease.

Discover More!

How to Switch Your Bird From Seeds to Pellets

Important Vitamins and Minerals for Pet Birds

Pet Bird Nutrition

The Necessity of Exercie for Birds

Obesity in Birds

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