What is one of the main reasons to avoid excessive handling of birds during a veterinary appointment?

Excessive handling of birds during a veterinary appointment can significantly lead to stress and fear responses. Birds are highly sensitive creatures, and their stress levels can rise rapidly in unfamiliar environments, particularly when they are handled frequently or improperly. This fear can trigger a range of negative reactions, including aggressive behavior, resistance to examination, and even physiological issues that can affect their health.

Minimizing handling is essential in creating a calm atmosphere, as it respects the bird's natural instincts. Birds tend to thrive in environments where they feel safe and secure, and reducing handling helps instill a sense of safety during their visit. This focus on reducing stress not only benefits the individual bird but also helps create a more efficient and successful veterinary appointment for both the bird and the veterinary staff. Thus, understanding and mitigating fear and stress responses is a key part of providing compassionate and effective care in avian veterinary practice.