03-12-2025, 04:40 AM | #1 Recognizing Signs of Illness & Emergency First Aid for Companion Birds As bird owners, we know how important it is to spot early signs of illness. Birds instinctively hide symptoms until they are very sick, so even minor changes in behavior can indicate a serious problem. Acting quickly can save your bird’s life! The Association of Avian Veterinarians (AAV) provides a helpful guide on identifying illness and taking emergency action when needed. ? Signs of Illness in Birds If your bird shows any of these symptoms, consult an avian veterinarian immediately: ⚠️ General Appearance & Behavior ? Fluffed-up feathers for prolonged periods, even when not sleeping ? Lethargy or weakness – sitting at the bottom of the cage, reluctance to move, or unsteady perching ?️ Decreased vocalization – a normally chatty bird becoming quiet or making strange sounds ? Changes in posture – hunched over, wings drooping, or difficulty standing ⚠️ Eating & Digestion ?️ Loss of appetite – refusing food or eating significantly less ? Abnormal droppings – changes in color, consistency, or frequency (e.g., black stools, undigested food, diarrhea) ? Vomiting or regurgitation – occasional regurgitation can be normal, but forceful vomiting is a red flag ⚠️ Respiratory & Physical Symptoms ?? Labored breathing – open-mouth breathing, tail bobbing, or wheezing ? Discharge from eyes or nostrils – watery or crusty buildup ? Frequent sneezing or coughing – especially with discharge ? Swelling or lumps – any unusual growths, swelling, or injuries should be checked by a vet ⚠️ Feather, Skin & Neurological Issues ? Excessive preening or plucking – could indicate stress, parasites, or illness ? Dull, ruffled, or missing feathers – healthy birds have smooth, vibrant feathers ? Crusty or swollen feet – could indicate an infection like bumblefoot ? Head tilting, tremors, or loss of balance – may indicate infections, toxins, or neurological disorders ?⚕️ Seizures or sudden collapse – requires immediate veterinary attention ? Emergency First Aid for Sick Birds If you suspect your bird is seriously ill, take these emergency steps while arranging a vet visit: DO: ✅ Keep your bird warm – Sick birds lose heat quickly. Move them to a quiet, warm space (around 85°F / 29°C) using a heating pad (set on low) or a heat lamp, but ensure they have room to move away from the heat source if needed. ✅ Minimize stress – Keep handling to a minimum, place the cage in a calm area, and reduce noise. ✅ Ensure easy access to food and water – Offer familiar, soft foods in small amounts and place water dishes close to where your bird is resting. DO NOT: ❌ DO NOT force food or water into your bird’s beak. Sick birds may aspirate (inhale liquid) if force-fed, leading to serious complications or death. If your bird is too weak to eat or drink, seek immediate veterinary help. ❌ DO NOT delay veterinary care – Birds decline rapidly once symptoms appear. Even if your bird seems to improve, the underlying cause may still be serious. ❌ DO NOT medicate without veterinary guidance – Over-the-counter medications meant for other animals or humans can be toxic to birds. ? When to Seek Emergency Vet Care If your bird shows ANY of the following, get them to an avian veterinarian IMMEDIATELY: ? Labored breathing, open-mouth breathing, or tail bobbing ? Weakness, inability to stand, or sitting at the bottom of the cage ? Seizures, head tilting, or uncontrolled movements ? Bleeding that doesn’t stop ? Vomiting or regurgitation multiple times ? Severe diarrhea or abnormal droppings for more than 24 hours For a more detailed guide, check out the AAV’s full resource: ? AAV Signs of Illness in Companion Birds (PDF) Have you ever had to care for a sick bird? What were the first signs you noticed? Share your experiences below so we can all learn from each other!
