Nursing a Sick Bird

Some sick birds require hospitalisation and intensive treatment, while other conditions can be treated at home. There are some measures you can take to optimise your bird’s chance for successful recovery.

Medicating the sick bird

Your veterinarian will show you how to medicate your bird. Make sure you are comfortable doing this, as your bird may need to stay in hospital if he will not get the proper dose of medication. Ensure you finish the course of treatment, as often treatment needs to be continued even after your bird seems recovered.

How can I aid my bird's recovery?

Apart from giving medication at the prescribed intervals and for the required length of time, you can help your bird recover by providing a warm and stress-free environment. The ambient temperature should be 22 –25 degrees, and continue your bird’s normal light/dark cycle, trying not to disturb him during the night by putting on the light to continually check on him. Let him rest by keeping noise and distractions to a minimum, and don’t encourage him to play or interact with him until he is fully recovered. Separate him from other birds to allow him to rest, and to discourage the spread of infectious disease.

What if my bird doesn't seem to be responding to treatment?

If your bird is not responding as expected, contact your veterinarian to see if a different treatment or tests are required.

Can I catch my bird's disease?

There are some diseases that are transmissible to humans. Your veterinarian should advise you if there is the possibility that your bird has a transmissible disease. However, since some of these diseases are difficult to diagnose, consult your doctor if you start to feel unwell.

- Last updated 16 November 2012