Signs of a Sick Bird: Early Warning Signs to Watch For

In the wild, a bird that looks weak becomes a target for predators. That's why birds instinctively hide illness, often until they're quite sick. As an owner, learning the subtle early signs can make the difference in getting your bird help in time.

If you notice any of these signs, call your avian vet. With birds, it's always better to check early than to wait and see.

Changes in behavior

• Sitting fluffed up for long periods, especially during the day
• Sleeping more than usual, or sleeping on two feet instead of one
• Sitting on the cage floor
• Less talking, singing or playing
• Unusual aggression or unusual clinginess

Changes in eating and weight

• Eating less, or not eating at all
• Drinking much more or less than usual
• Weight loss. Weigh your bird weekly on a gram scale; a steady drop is often the first sign something is wrong.
• Vomiting. Note that healthy birds sometimes regurgitate food as a sign of affection, often while bobbing their head toward a person, toy or mirror. Vomiting from illness tends to be messier, with food flicked around and stuck to the head.

Changes in breathing

• Tail bobbing with each breath
• Breathing with an open mouth while resting
• Clicking, wheezing or other breathing sounds
• Sneezing often, or discharge from the nostrils

Changes in droppings

A bird's droppings have three parts: the darker fecal part, the white urates and clear liquid urine. Watch for:

• A sudden change in color, especially red, black or bright green urates
• Undigested food in the droppings
• Fewer or smaller droppings, which can mean your bird isn't eating
• Ongoing watery droppings not explained by eating lots of fresh fruit and vegetables

Changes in appearance

• Discharge from the eyes, or swollen or crusty eyes
• Dull, ragged or stress-barred feathers
• Feather plucking or picking
• Lumps, swelling, or an overgrown beak or nails
• A dirty vent (the feathers under the tail)

Emergency signs

Get to a vet immediately if your bird is bleeding, having trouble breathing, having a seizure, can't perch, has been injured or attacked by another pet, may have eaten something toxic, or is a hen straining without passing an egg.

While you're getting help

Keep your bird warm, quiet and in a small, familiar space. Don't give medication without your vet's direction. If your vet recommends nutritional support, Harrison's Recovery Formula is a formula designed for sick or recovering birds.

Prevention

Many illnesses in pet birds trace back to diet, household hazards or stress. A pellet-based diet, a safe home and a yearly avian vet checkup go a long way. Learn more in what do parrots eat? and foods and hazards that are toxic to parrots.

This article is general information, not a diagnosis. Always contact an avian vet if you're worried about your bird.