Recognizing a Sick Bird

How can I tell if my bird is sick?

In the wild, a bird will endeavour to uphold a strong appearance when sick.  This is called “survival of the fittest”.  By the time a bird actually shows an owner that it is unwell, it has likely been sick for some time.  It is because of this that bird owners must learn to recognize the subtle signs a bird presents when unhealthy before it is too late.  Many things contribute to ill health.  Improper diet is the most common cause of ill health.  Trauma, poor up-keep, inferior hygiene, stress and genetics may lead to ill health.  Just because the bird’s outward appearance is normal does not mean the bird is healthy.  Any deviation from normal should be taken as a sign of ill health.

      The following is a list of signs that should alert you that your bird is sick.

Any change in regular behaviour or personality Unusually tame behaviour Irritability, agitation Poor general appearance (feathers “ratty”)  Eye discharge  Cloudy eyes   Swelling around eyes Nasal discharge Blocked nostrils Sneezing (excessive) Wheezing or “wet” breathing Cere (the skin around the nostrils)  Irregularity Laboured breathing or open mouth breathing Tail “bobbing” with each breath Change in voice or no voice Anorexia (not eating or reduced eating) Changes in amount of drinking Weight gain Weight loss Fluffed feathers Drooping wings Listlessness, inactivity, depression Sleeping more Lumps, bumps, swellings or bulges on the body Lameness or swollen joints paralysis

weakness redness or visible irritation not perching, sitting on bottom of cage wet droppings diarrhea change in the colour of the droppings staining of the feathers around the vent (anus) decreased droppings wet feathers around face and head vomiting or excessive regurgitation sore feet balance problems seizures unconsciousness flaky or crusty skin excessive scratching changes in the texture of the beak overgrown beak or nails feather changes, colour, chewed, plucked or damaged baldness prolonged molt abnormality of beak growth protrusions from the vent (prolapse) bleeding

Do not try to play doctor.  If you are concerned about anything, consult your veterinarian.