Ask Lafeber

Question:

July 27, 2023

Is Mastrubation possible in hand fed macaw of 52 days old?


We had a blue gold macaw with Cecal prolapse and was intended for taming, was kept along with many macaw in the same room. It was just 52 days old. Can mastrubation be a cause for this prolapse?


Answer:

Hi,

No, this is not possible other than being a medical oddity. Macaws exhibit their first hormonal behavior between 5-7 years old and really aren’t ready to breed until 10 years old. And prolapse caused by excessive masturbation in parrots happens after weeks or more often months of this behavior.

A chick of 52 days shouldn’t even be weaned yet. I would look at an intestinal issue either from disease, deformity or a blockage. Do you know what kind of substrate the bird has been kept on? Possibly he has swallowed some and it has impacted somewhere in his digestive system. Straining is why a prolapse happens, not the excessive rubbing, so why was the bird straining? It could be something to do with his formula. Maybe it was too thick and the bird became dehydrated and was having trouble pooping. Intestinal parasites could be a cause, too, although rare unless the parents were housed outside. If the chick is still alive, it is unlikely to have a good prognosis because once prolapse occurs, even surgical correction tends to be a temporary fix. There is a newer surgery that is being done but I’m not sure where it is available.

Take care,

Brenda

Subscribe to our newsletter

Click here to subscribe to our newsletter

×

Join our Lafeber Flock

Enjoy our Pet Birds' weekly newsletter, featuring captivating stories, care tips, and more.
Opt for Small Mammals' monthly edition for delightful facts about rabbits, guinea pigs, and more.
Choose our monthly Backyard Chickens newsletter for insightful information to keep your flock happy.
*