Changes in Droppings

[claudzilla]

I've noticed a change in my bird's droppings in the last couple of days and I'm wondering if it's normal or not. Lately there is no white part, just light brown feces and clear liquid. The only change in diet is that my p'let has started eating fresh foods. Is this a normal change, or should I take her to the vet? :confused:

Thanks! I hope all is well!

[Callie]

Specifically, what fresh foods have you added to her diet? Some food may change the coloring of the droppings but it's a good thing you've noticed the change.

If in doubt, it's always best to check out changes with your avian vet. I change the paper in the bottoms of all my cages every 24 hrs so that I can see changes such as you are describing.

[claudzilla]

When I first got her, she wouldn't eat any fresh foods, but in the last few days she's started chomping on pieces of carrot, apple, bok choy, banana and green bean (she's also started chomping on me a little bit, but that's another post :p). I also make sure to change the papers in her cage every day. I noticed the change a couple of days ago, which is also when I spotted her chewing on some carrot pieces for the first time. I hope there's nothing bad for her in there - it's so nice to see how she heads right for the fruit & veggie dish as soon as I put it in her cage. :confused:

[Callie]

I don't see anything that jumps out and screams "dangerous" for birds. If the apples are not organic, that could cause a problem because apple skins can contain pesticides that get absorbed and remain just under the peel. Apple seeds contain cyanide and cyanide builds up in the system before it kills.

I use carrots daily and I don't see changes in droppings. I think I'd schedule a vet appointment, just to be one the safe side. It may be absolutely nothing at all, but there's no price tag on peace of mind.

[rubberstampman]

when I first gave mine blueberries, the droppings looked black, but upon removing the blueberries went back to green........NEVER give apple seeds!!!!

[enborgle]

Sounds like there may just be more water in her system as a result of the added greens and fruits, which could be causing the diluted urates. I would probably wait over the weekend before going to the vet, but Callie is right, there's no price tag on peace of mind, so if it's bothersome for you then go ahead and book a vet appt.

[Jose's Mom]

I too am noticing the same thing with Jose, and he is also eating much more of his fruits and veggies the last few days even thoguh he is a good eater of F and V anyway, he has been eating more and more everyday. I have been a bit worried about his droppings, so much so my husband thinks I am nuts, I disect it if you will looking for the white part if he "poops" out of his cage, sometimes it is there, sometiems it is not. He has no change in behavior, as a matter of fact he is happier than before and more social. I was going to post this thread but claudzilla did prior to me, so I am thankful for the replys. Itoo wil be Better safe than sorry, but I do feel that is is the change in eating habits and the increase in water in diet. I was going to add a new food over teh weekend a Higgens rice and bean cooked food, but I am going to wait now until he has normal poop again.

[claudzilla]

Thanks for the replies! I've noticed the same thing as Jose's Mom - Saturday actually seems more active and social lately. I think that also may be because she's getting more used to me. I'm going to keep an eye on her behavior over the next few days and see how it goes, but it seems like she's probably fine, just digesting more moisture and fiber than she's had previously.

[Jose's Mom]

This is what I found while researchig diet, hope this helps alliviate concerns.:

"Your bird can eat as many vegetables as it wants, that's okay, but avoid too much fruit as it is mostly sugar and water and therefore, not all that nutritious. Always wash fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly before feeding. If you use fruit cocktail, buy the type with no sugar or syrup added. Your bird's droppings will get more watery when you feed them fruits and vegetables, especially with fruits. Do not mistake this for diarrhea. It is usually an increase in urine production due to the high water content of these types of food, or in other words, water in, water out!

The fecal portion of the dropping should remain formed but you will see less of the white stuff (urates) and more "water" (urine). This is okay. If the fecal portion is also unformed or has an odor, then you need to have the bird checked. Remember, your vet needs to see the droppings so do not clean the cage before your visit."

Please note- it stated earlier in the article to never use canned products- so when it is referring to fruit cocktail I am assuming it means frozen or fresh

[claudzilla]

Wow, thank you, Jose's Mom! That is incredibly helpful. The article describes exactly the kinds of changes I have seen, and since Saturday is very active and feisty, it seems that she is a-okay. :D And if it's a sign that she's eating her vegetables, so much the better. Thanks again - I really appreciate your help!