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Feather Cysts in Birds

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What is a feather cyst?

Feather cyst on a canary's back.
(Photo: Dr. Gregory Rich, DVM)
A feather cyst is like an ingrown hair on a human, except it is much larger and wider (because a feather is a larger structure than a hair). Cysts occur due to malformation of the growing feather within the follicle, which is located under the skin. When a growing feather cannot protrude through its natural opening in the skin, it curls up within the follicle, creating a mass of unopened feather(s).

Feather cysts appear visibly as oval or elongated swellings that involve one or more feather follicles. They may occur anywhere, but most commonly involve one or more primary and/or secondary feathers of the wings. Canaries may get large, multiple feather cysts on the torso as well as the wings.

As the feather continues to grow, the cyst enlarges and yellow/white keratin material accumulates under the skin. These cysts can become quite large and sometimes involve numerous feather follicles in one cyst. These cysts create a certain amount of discomfort and/or pain for the bird.

What causes a feather cyst?

Feather cysts can be caused by genetic predisposition, viral or bacterial infection, malnutrition, trauma, feather picking, self-mutilation, or any other factor that affects feather growth. Any bird can develop feather cysts, but the highest incidence is seen in sun conures, blue and gold macaws, budgies (budgerigars), and certain breeds of canaries (i.e., Gloster, Norwich, and Border breeds). In canaries, there is an apparent genetic link to feather cyst formation.

How are feather cysts treated and prevented?

Never try to remove feather cysts at home. Never use styptic powder in a feather follicle as it will damage the follicle and may cause the formation of a feather cyst in that follicle in the future. Any swelling on a bird should receive prompt care by an avian veterinarian. If the feather cyst is damaged or pulled out without proper care, it can bleed profusely, so treatment should be provided by a veterinarian familiar with birds. Cysts that are bothersome, cysts involving self-trauma, and recurrent infections may need to be surgically removed.


© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Last updated on Aug 8, 2025.