Massage Therapy

Many bird owners discuss the pros and cons of flighted birds. Not only do flighted birds feel more confidant, but they are at less of a risk for predators and injury sustaining crashes than clipped birds. Whether your bird is flighted or clipped you can help your feathered friend relax his wing muscles with a type of bird massage therapy.

Begin by setting your bird on a perch that will allow the bird to completely expand his wings.Gently, pinch the wings between your thumb and first two fingers. You can do one wing at a time or both.

Gently massage the wing quills by rolling the feathers through your thumb and fingers working your way out to the tips of the wings.

Hold the tips of the wings for just a moment longer to allow the bird to relax and pull them from your finger tips.

After wings, gently work your thumb and first three fingers over the hip, leg and toe joints of the bird's body. A gentle massage before bed or with shower time can help relieve anxiety and muscle tension.

Use positive reinforcement such as a calm, friendly and praising voice along with a favorite treat. Before you know it, your bird will look forward to a massage anytime its offered.

Never scream, yell, shake or punish your bird if he is resistant to the exercise. Be patient and teach him that massage therapy is a good thing. Your bird will learn how much better he feels, which can reduce anxious behaviors such as screaming or feather plucking.