The Kato Report

[BKHagar]

Well, we got the vet's report and take on Kato last night! MOSTLY good, but to be expected there was some not so good stuff, as well. We KNEW he had a crappy diet- his bad cholesterol is way too high, so we have to REALLY watch the fatty and starchy stuff, poor guy! He weighed in at 480 grams! I think that is good for him! We are also going to try harder at getting him to eat the Harrison's pellets- none of our other birds do . . . but I know it might really help, and it's what the vet REALLY wants us to have him eat, aside from the fresh fruits and veggies. She DOES think he's male! WOOHOO! and believes that some of the elevated or lessened levels were from stress and also the plucking, although he is growing feathers in at an astounding rate!! He isn't plucking, but that one little red tailfeather? Well, he gnawed it off some time after bedtime- I could have cried . . . SO! Kato will go back to the vet's within the next 4-6 months, and we'll have all the bloodwork rerun, to see how he's doing!

For now, he is really acclimating grandly! Last night, I put him in my lap, and he climbed up me, but would stop here and there to let me just hold him close to me with my hand stroking him carefully! He is getting to be playful, too! Playing with the toys like he's never had any before!! He is a joy to watch!!

Hope to have more pics SOON so you can see our progress!

Hugs!

Kim

[amazing greys]

Kim that is good news for the most part, just getting him to eat properly is the key. I know those levels will change once he's on a good diet and getting more exersize. You have to figure those levels are high due to lack of exersize and burning those extras off.


Harrisons is a good pellet diet, I've also heard Hagans food is good in comparison, but less expensive. Roudybush is another one I like.

Great to hear he's opening up more and more. He will continue to do so, I know it ;) Don't worry about a few setbacks, he's got to rethink that habbit, and will take time. Sinbad looked so beautiful when he was letting his feathers in, but now has barbered his back feathers, not bare or plucked, just barbered :( Chest still is bare, that will take the longest I believe. Just takes time, as you know. Hang in there, and keep giving plenty of love from auntie Barb too!!

You get those pics up here soon!! I got to see more of him!!! hehehehehe :funny:

[Jean]

His cholesterol levels should start to lower once his system gets used to a healthy diet. It's great,, he's learning how to play with toys! Lot's of mistings and good showers, a good diet along with good care and a lot of love and patience should help. Hopefuly, you do not have to resort to a part time collar.
I've seen and heard "both" good and bad results from collering. Not all mature birds will accept them, , some will acept them in time, others will fight it, as it breaks their will and spirit. It's works different with each bird.
Good Luck!