Anyone Know Treatments For Hyperkeratosis?

[Scotty]

Hi Guys,

Winnie my Mynah has hyperkeratosis, in fact she's had it all her 4 years of life, well pretty much so...

Since she's a wild bird I found outside and hand raised her, I try to put her out in the sun everyday in the morning, depending on how hot, anywhere from 20mins to an hour. Getting the sun seems to help I've noticed, but it's not completely cured.

Right now I feed her Goldenfeast Goldn 'Obles II and TOPS. of course some various fruits and veggies on occassion. I started adding in some organic hemp oil into the pellets.

I've read Vitamin A is suppose to be good for treating Hyperkeratosis, but I'm not really sure. Winnie does like carrot juice, so if this does work, I guess time to start giving her some more...

Anyone know much about Hyperkeratosis, any natural ways to cure it? I really can't afford to go to the Vets right now...

THANKS

[Eric&Rebecca]

Yes Vitamin A does help with that Try Spinach and leafy greens as they promote absorption. Also aloe vera and misting may help alleviate symptoms. Maybe you can ask about bird insurance or open a birdy credit card for vet emergencies. Some vets do later payments installments too.

[Andromeda]

I use Harrison's Sunshine Factor to help keep my bird's skin, nails, feathers, and beak in good condition and to help prevent Vitamin A deficiency. It does not contain Vitamin A (so you don't have to worry about an overdose) but it contains carotenoids which are a precursor to Vitamin A.

One other member here recently said her African Grey had Vitamin A deficiency and the vet told her to give the bird red palm fruit oil (which is what Sunshine Factor is). Sunshine Factor is also rich in Vitamin E which also helps keep the feathers, nails, and beak smooth and shiny. I noticed on the other thread that you were concerned about your green cheek's beak and although I don't think it's abnormal it may also help with the condition of his beak.

Alternately you can also try feeding things rich in Vitamin A such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and papaya. It might help to include some Vitamin E from spinach, red bell peppers, or almonds (feed nuts in small amounts due to fat)---although it won't directly address the hyperkeratosis, it will help with the overall condition of the skin, nails, and beak.

Don't give a Vitamin A supplement because it's too easy to accidentally give too much.

[Scotty]

Thanks guys...