Common Bird Illnesses and How to Spot Them

Why Early Detection Matters

In the wild, showing weakness makes a bird a target for predators. This survival instinct means pet birds often mask illness until they are seriously sick. Learning the subtle signs can save your bird's life.

Respiratory Infections

Signs include tail bobbing while breathing, open-mouth breathing, nasal discharge, and clicking or wheezing sounds. Aspergillosis is a common fungal respiratory infection, especially in African greys.

Psittacosis (Parrot Fever)

A bacterial infection that can spread to humans. Symptoms include lethargy, green droppings, eye discharge, and respiratory distress. It is treatable with antibiotics.

Fatty Liver Disease

Caused by high-fat seed-only diets. Symptoms include obesity, overgrown beak, and black spots on the beak. Prevention is the best cure: switch to a pellet-based diet.

Feather Plucking

While not always a medical issue, feather plucking can indicate skin infections, allergies, or hormonal imbalance. Behavioural plucking is often linked to boredom or stress.

Egg Binding

Female birds can become egg-bound when they cannot pass an egg. This is a medical emergency. Signs include straining, fluffed feathers, and sitting on the cage floor.

Proventricular Dilatation Disease (PDD)

A serious viral condition affecting the digestive system. Weight loss despite eating, undigested food in droppings, and regurgitation are warning signs.

General Warning Signs

Any changes in eating, drinking, droppings, energy level, or behaviour warrant a vet visit. When in doubt, call your avian vet.