Canary picking after mite treatment: Is this normal or a problem?

Thanks for reaching out about Tweety. Feather mites are a possibility, especially is you observe heavy scratching on the back of the neck. Mites are usually contagious, so either a new bird or a new bird added. If the feather loss or itching continues, a veterinarian visit should be scheduled. Good luck.

Poor little guy! He very possibly has scaly mites. Ideally he should be seen by an avian veterinarian, but there is an over-the-counter product called Avimec that is a drop-on remedy for scaly mites. These mites only live on the body, so you don't have to treat the cage as well, but it would be a good idea to take it apart anyway and give it a good deep cleaning just to be safe. Plenty of soap and hot water and thorough rinsing will work. Good luck with him.

You can mist him with warm water to encourage preening. This will promote healthy plunage. If he continues to itch, it may due to mites or infection. These would require an exam with your veterinarian for confirmation. Mites can be treated with an over the counter spray. Read labels v\carefully to confirm the chosen product can be used on birds. Clean and sanitize the cage, bowls, perches and toys. Discard anything that cannot be sanitized. Change the cage paper daily. If an infection (bacterial or fungal) is diagnosed, your vet can prescribe the appropriate medication.

The use of aloe vera on birds is controversial. Depending on who you ask, you may get a yes or no. Personally, I use only plain water to bathe my birds (African Greys). The itching may be due to mites (which you mayor may not be able to see), bacterial infection, viral infection or nutritional deficiency. By your description, it sounds as if Naomi may be bored, stressed or both. At her age, allowing flight would not be recommended. It looks like you may have an Indian ringneck or Alexandrine parrot based on the partial image. These birds typically aren't weaned until closer to 10 weeks of age. Weaning is a very stressful time for a chick and can also be a cause for her behavior.

Thanks for reaching out about Quiz and including photos. The mites live only on the birds, which is not to say they can't fall off, but typically treating all the animals in the habitat is sufficient to cure. The best treatment is a systemic medication called ivermectin but the benzoate works well. But this is not a systemic drug, therefore if an area is missed topically might not clear the infestation or take longer. Be careful applying around the eyes. Good luck.

Clean and sanitize the cage, bowls, toys and perches. Discard anything that cannot be sanitized. Use ain paper on the cage bottom and change it daily or more frequently if needed. Bathe or mist Ashy in warm water to promote preening and healthy plumage. Without a firm diagnosis of the underlying cause, it is difficult to provide more specific advice. Potential causes include infection (bacterial, fungal, viral or parasites), boredom, stress/anxiety or even malnutrition.

If you suspect a parasite such as mites most pet stores carry a commercial mite spray that can be used on birds to treat mites. Placing an Elizabethan (cone) collar on Sky is also a good idea to keep her from picking at the spot while it heals (Google has tutorials on how to make bird-sized ones at home) If the problem persists, it would be good to have her examined by a vet. If you're having trouble affording care, this site may help give you some ideas to make vet care more affordable so Sky can get the help she needs: https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/having-trouble-affording-veterinary-care