Optimal Conditions

• Annual check-ups and testing for common diseases and illness can maximize life expectancy rates.Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
  
  Optimal conditions include proper cage size of a minimum of 24 inches wide by 24 inches deep by 36 inches high, and made from non-toxic materials such as stainless steel. A diet made up of at least 70 percent quality pelleted food, daily vegetables and fruits along with some seed and fresh water twice daily provides all of the bird's required nutrients to thrive. A well-ventilated room free from drafts set at about 72 degrees Fahrenheit provides an optimal environment.
  
  

Things the Decrease the Life Expectancy

• Loud environments, rough handling and toxins all contribute to a decreased life expectancy. Quaker parrots require daily handling and out-of-cage time to thrive. Many common household fumes are lethal even in small doses to birds such as cigarette and pipe smoke, non-stick cookware fumes as well as grills and fire places. Candles, chemical cleaners, paint removers and room deodorizers are also toxic.
  
  

Breed Concerns

• Quaker parrots are prone to fatty liver disease, which is caused by poor diet that includes too many snacks, too much fatty food and unhealthy treats. Fatty liver disease is preventable by limiting fats and oils such as nuts and seeds to 10 percent of the Quaker's diet. Pet food supply stores carry maintenance pellets as well as low fat pellets that can prevent and reduce obesity. Quakers thrive best on natural pelleted diets made with real grains and vegetables.
  
  

Considerations

• Quakers are also prone to iron and calcium storage, which can be brought on by over supplementing a bird's diet. Pelleted diets are fortified, thus additional dietary supplements are not needed under maintenance conditions. Fresh kale, carrots and apples are not considered supplements but are necessary for optimal health. Treats that you can share with your Quaker are nibbles of dry cereal, grapes and mango.