What is Fatty Liver Disease?

Fatty liver disease (FLD) is a common, but often missed condition in pet birds, especially parrots. It develops when excess fat accumulates in the liver, interfering with normal liver function. The most common causes include seed-heavy or high-fat diets, too many treats, lack of exercise, obesity, and long-term nutritional imbalance.

Symptoms can be subtle at first, but often show up physically. Many birds with FLD develop an overgrown beak or abnormal beak growth, along with visible horizontal striations or lines on the beak. Other signs may include lethargy, weight gain, fluffed feathers, continuous molt cycles, or changes in droppings (often growing more yellow in coloration). Because these signs can be easy to overlook, the disease may progress before it’s noticed.

It’s important to understand that fatty liver disease cannot be diagnosed at home, but if you notice these symptoms, an avian veterinarian visit is essential. Proper diagnosis typically requires bloodwork and early intervention can significantly improve outcomes.

While there is no cure for fatty liver disease, supportive care can help manage the condition. We offer milk thistle oil and milk thistle seeds, which are commonly used to support liver health and help reduce liver stress when used alongside veterinary guidance and proper diet changes. Milk thistle is not a replacement for veterinary care, but it can be a helpful supplement as part of a broader, vet-approved care plan. We can also discuss dietary changes, ways to encourage play and flight, and overall improved husbandry if you come in store to discuss with us one on one.

The photos below show a before and after grooming appointment of a budgie parakeet that more than likely is suffering with fatty liver disease.