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My Amazon parrot sneezes, whistles, and shakes its head. Is it sick?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Amazon | Male | unneutered | 2.8 lbs

Hello, i just bought a blue fronted amazon the seller told me he is a year old, the bird’s name is Kiwi. He sneezes a lot and when he get scared he starts to shake his head up and down slowly, and if someone else try carries him he twist his head in like a circle. Some time his breath has a whistling sound and quite warm. When i got him he pumped his head on the wall and I don’t know if that was the reason. He has a twisted finger on his right talon.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Todd Cecil

Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on January 18th, 2020

Thanks for reaching out about Kiwi and including photos. Sneezing and shaking a head are a possible indication of an upper respiratory infection. This bird should be assessed by a veterinarian, as one of the possibilities are chlamydophila which could be transmitted to other birds and people. Heat support and good nutrition can help but should not be used in lieu of a veterinary visit.
Good luck.
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