Grey issues?

[GreenWing]

I read on one website (which shall not be named, lol) that, in so many words, CAG are too dusty and are basically "psychotic."

I realize Greys are sensitive, but why would someone consider them to be psychotic? And surely air purifiers and keeping clean house takes care of the dust. Many parrots are dusty, even cockatiels are considered to be really dusty.

[Dbeguy]

Quite simply, someone is ignorant Greenwing. I'm sure that this "expert" came across a few poor abused Greys and has made broad sweeping generalizations that they're all crazy

[Pajarita]

Well, they are dusty and they do tend to have more psychological issues than other species but I would not call all of them psychotic. There is a tendency among avian vets now to call self-mutilation, plucking, etc 'psychotic episodes' as if there was some sort of a chemical imbalance in the bird's brain causing the behavior... I think they do it to make the owners feel better and to place the blame on something else instead of the conditions the bird is kept.

[GreenWing]

Quite simply, someone is ignorant Greenwing. I'm sure that this "expert" came across a few poor abused Greys and has made broad sweeping generalizations that they're all crazy

You may be right. I don't think it's fair to refer to Greys as "psychotic"... they are so intelligent that they are sensitive... but I agree, such a broad generalization is unfair and negative and I really didn't like the negative connotation.

I think they do it to make the owners feel better and to place the blame on something else instead of the conditions the bird is kept.

Agreed, well said. As my Avian vet said, Greys like the status quo, and don't particularly respond to change very well. However, as far as I know, my own Grey has had two homes before coming to me, and she seems to be doing okay (despite having cursing issues, lol).

[Pajarita]

Yes, again, they are more resilient than most people give them credit for but I think that with all parrots but most especially with grays, the way they were treated as hatchlings has a lot to do with the way they will be when they grow up (that's why it's safer to adopt an adult than to buy a baby).

[Cedardave]

Yes they are dusty...air purifier helps a bit.They are a very rewarding companion if you are willing to put in the time.My beautiful girl Lexi will say I love you...brightens up your whole world.I suggest the payoff far exceeds the effort.

[GreenWing]

Oh heck yes, the air purifier has helped BIG time. (Ya hear that, all dusty parrot owners? GET ONE, NAO.) I don't even notice the dust now; at first I was a little sneezy and now... it's like all dust allergies, even the ones I had pre-Grey adoption, are gone. Also I see barely and dander when I mop the floors at night.

I also agree that having a Grey is incredibly rewarding. She she has proven to be a true companion.