Problem
A 36- year-old Goffins Cockatoo presented with chronic behavioral feather picking that had resulted in folliculitis and quiescent feather follicles over much of her body
Signalment
“Crackers”, Goffins Cockatoo, 36 year old, female, 252 gm.
Procedure
Class IV Companion laser therapy was used to reduce folliculitis and stimulate feather follicle activity.
Laser Settings
Laser treatments were administered every 2-4 weeks for several months. A Wound protocol was used at 1 Watt to deliver 1-2 Joules/cm2.
Outcome
Although the patient did not regain complete follicular activity, feathers were stimulated to grow on her body and wings. The patient continued to pluck feathers due the habitual nature of the disorder, but there was overall improvement
Comments
Chronic feather picking and feather destructive behavior often lead to follicular damage that prevents feather re-growth over time. Therefore, the stimulation of the feather follicles by laser therapy has good potential for inducing clinical improvement in these cases.
Presentation
Feather condition after laser therapy treatment.
The patient continued to pluck feathers due the habitual nature of the disorder, but there was overall improvement.