molting?

Question
Ok, here goes. I have a pet parakeet about 1 year old in the past week or so he has become quite "sleepy" meaning we catch him sleeping with his head under his wing alot. He also isn't being very noisy, he used to just squak and sing all day now the only time that he makes noise is if we are cleaning his cage and bothering him. Today, I put my hand in his cage and he jumped on my finger without a problem in the past he has stayed as fr away from our hands as he could get. I am just wondering if he is molting or it may be mosre serious? He is eating a drinking ok and his stools are ok.


Answer
Mary,

As long as he's eating and drinking well and his stool is normal I wouldn't worry. If he's molting you will notice lots of feathers scattered all over the bottom of the cage (and all around it too if he's anything like my pets) and he will look a little "scruffy" until he gets his new feathers. Molting does make parakeets act lethargic and if you are concerned you might want to buy some molting treat, it can be purchased at any discount or pet store. Also, you may want to try giving him some bird vitamins to boost his energy level.

I have noticed with my parakeets when they reach about one year of age they tend to act less playful and they become more tame. This may be the case with your pet.

If you have any follow-up questions I will be happy to try and help, good luck with your pet!

Angel