In order to be happy and healthy, your bird has to have a healthy beak. It's essential for not only eating, but for their emotional well being as well. So how can you tell if your bird's beak is healthy? First, make sure your bird is eating and appears happy and healthy. Next, inspect the beak. it should appear smooth and symmetrical with no discolorations. Both the upper and lower beak must align as well. If your bird does not pass all of these tests with flying colors, they may have one of the following four common beak problems. 

Abnormal Growth and Overgrowth

If your bird's beak does not align properly, it may have grown abnormally. Some birds develop abnormalities while they're young that become more apparent later in life. If your bird's upper or lower beak grows too long or if your bird's beak doesn't grow properly, this may be the issue. In addition to filing your bird's beak into a more favorable shape, your veterinarian may be able to attach dental appliances to change the way your bird's beak grows. 

Nutritional Deficiencies and Liver Disease

In order to have a healthy beak, your bird has to be on the right diet. A diet that's high in fat or low in nutrition can lead to liver disease, which can greatly affect the health of your bird's beak. A diet lacking in calcium and vitamin D, can make it impossible for your bird to grow a healthy beak. Poor nutrition can lead to a soft, rubbery beak and other health issues. If you're not sure what to feed your bird or if your bird isn't getting enough nutrition from their regular diet, consult your veterinarian. 

Fighting and Trauma

Fractures and chips on the beak can be caused from trauma and/or fighting among your birds. In severe cases, entire pieces of the beak may be missing. If your bird suffers a traumatic beak injury, you should treat it is an emergency. 

Infectious Diseases and Parasites

Your bird's beak can get infected by a host of nasty things, including viral, bacterial and fungal pathogens. Parasites, such as face mites, are also not uncommon. If your bird's beak appears scaly, scarred or discolored, you may be dealing with an infection of some sort. 

A healthy beak is vital for the health and happiness of your bird. If you have any doubts as to the health of your bird's beak, take them to see your veterinarian. For more information, contact companies like Stewartstown Vet Services.