Can meds make parrots go bald?!

Hi all,

I have a black capped conure, really young (just turned 3 months old) had her about a month and last week my Hahns macaw bit her foot. After limping for 24 hours I took her to the vet and he said she’s broken her foot.

He prescribed her antibiotics and anti inflammatory/pain meds which she’s been taking for a week now. I’m starting to notice a little bald area on the top of her head! I know she can’t do it to herself as it’s right on the top of her head and she isn’t being let out with any other birds so I’m not sure how it’s happening?!

I was wondering if the medications could cause this? I thought she was too young for moulting but now I’m not sure. Any help greatly appreciated.

Note: she wasn’t out with my Hahns she landed on his cage, she was being supervised but I simply didn’t get to her in time. I realise the mistake and have taken steps to greatly reduce this happening again!

I am not sure if a medication could cause this, but I would definitely consider getting your bird tested for PBFD after consulting with a certified avian vet in order to determine whether the meds could cause this or not.

Possible, but there are other more likely reasons for the observed baldness. You can search for side effects of various medications either via Google or veterinary Merck Manual: https://www.merckvetmanual.com/exotic-and-laboratory-animals/pet-birds/management-of-pet-birds