Looking After Sick Birds
If your bird is ill, then having him examined by your vet for an accurate diagnosis is the best thing you can do for your feathered friend. Your vet can then prescribe the appropriate medication to treat the illness and ensure that your bird returns to health as soon as possible. There are also some things that you can do at home to assist your bird's speedy recovery.
How do I know if my bird is sick?
Birds are able to disguise signs of illness until they are very ill, so as soon as your bird shows any of the following signs, you should seek veterinary advice:
Weakness, lack of response, sitting when not asleep (the underline touches the perch or ground)
Looking ‘fluffed up’
Drooping posture
Breathing difficulties, especially breathing in slowly then out quickly
Eyes partly closed
Head nodding or head bobbing
Vomiting – usually seen as matted feathers on the top of the head
Change in character or frequency of droppings
How do I give the medication?
There are several ways of giving medication to birds. The medicine may be added to the drinking water, or the feed, or you may have to give drops directly into the mouth or crop. When giving medication directly into the mouth, keep the dropper side-on to the head to avoid putting the medicine in the airway. Your veterinarian will demonstrate how to give the drops, although it may become more difficult to restrain your bird as he recovers. It is important to finish a prescribed course, so if you are having problems, contact your veterinarian.
What is the best environment for my sick bird?
A warmed, darkened and quiet environment is the best place for your recuperating bird. Most birds have a normal body temperature of about 41 degrees Celsius. A healthy bird can compensate for low temperatures by eating more and increasing its metabolic rate, but a sick bird is not capable of this. Have the temperature between 25 and 30 degrees to lessen the energy demand on your bird’s body. This can be achieved by placing a reading light beside the cage. Ensure that a reasonable humidity is maintained as dry heat can hasten dehydration.
How do I monitor my bird's condition?
Observe your bird’s eating, drinking, and droppings, so you can give information to your veterinarian on your bird’s progress. Try not to disturb a sick bird to avoid stressing him. Watch his posture and breathing patterns. If there has been no improvement after 48 hours, contact your veterinarian, as a change in medication may be required.
- Last updated 16 November 2012
