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Among all species of birds that are suitable as pets, the Eclectus parrot seems to be one that enjoys the greatest health. These are very robust birds, and a well-cared for Eclectus parrot can go through his entire life without ever becoming ill. This does not mean, however, that these birds are not subject to certain health concerns that you should be aware of.

The Polyoma Virus is probably the most serious health concern that Eclectus parrots are at risk for. There is a vaccination to protect your parrot against this deadly disease, and you should discuss this with your veterinarian. This particular disease is so fatal that the first symptom of it may be sudden death. In the event that your parrot does show other symptoms, before death, those symptoms include lack of appetite, weight loss, and lethargy. In all cases, once an Eclectus parrot has contracted Polyoma Virus, he will die.

Feather plucking is another ailment that an Eclectus parrot may face, however this ailment isn’t so much physical, as it is psychological. You see, when an Eclectus parrot is bored, he will act out by plucking out his own feathers. This ailment is usually easily cured by giving the bird more attention, more toys, and more room.

Sometimes, foods simply don’t agree with the Eclectus parrots digestive system, which is quite unique. This may result in diarrhea. If you notice that your parrot has diarrhea, you should immediately stop giving him fruit, until he is better. Make sure that he is, however, getting plenty of water. If the diarrhea lasts for more than a day, contact your veterinarian to make sure that he doesn’t have a parasite.

Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease Virus is also a serious problem. PBFD is contagious – and fatal. It presents itself in the beak and the feathers on the outside, but also affects the immune system on the inside. This dreadful disease most commonly affects younger birds, however – under the age of two. This is a DNA virus, and it is transmitted through the air, from droppings and feather dust. It is then simply inhaled by other birds. Symptoms include depression, diarrhea, regurgitation, loss of appetite, weight loss, abnormal feathers, abnormal growth, oral lesions, infections, and of course death.

As you can see, even though these are the healthiest pet birds one can have, the Eclectus parrot is subject to very serious health concerns. It is important to understand the signs and symptoms of these problems, so that you can seek veterinary care as soon as an illness makes itself present. A couple of these problems are, of course, fatal, but in the end, you can keep other birds in your home from contracting these diseases if you catch them early.