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My partner has clostridium. Can my birds catch it? What to watch for?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Cockatiel | Female | unspayed | 6 years and 9 months old

Hello my significant other was just diagnosed with a clostridium infection. In order to prevent transferring it to our birds, we're going to stay on top of hand washing and limit contact to the birds. What else can we do to prevent them from catching it, and what should we keep an eye out for? Thank you.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 11th, 2019

Usually the Clostridial species that causes clinical signs in humans is not the same one to cause clinical signs in birds. I'm not saying not to be careful but I don't think it is likely for your SO to transfer the bacteria to your birds and make them ill.

Hand washing is absolutely the number one way to prevent transmission of disease. Be sure it is proper handwashing - signing Happy Birthday twice while rubbing the soap around your hands, then rinse. Also, as you stated, minimizing handling of the birds by your SO during this time. Sounds like you have it under control!

Clostridial bacteria release a toxin. The toxin is what make them sick, not the bacteria itself. If the birds were to catch it, these are some symptoms to watch for:

* rapid deterioration of health
* loss of appetite
* weight loss
* listlessness
* bloody feces
* undigested food in feces

Even after the bird is cured of bacterial infection, the toxin will remain in the bird’s body -- causing the symptoms to continue. At the first sign of any symptoms get them to an avian vet ASAP.

Hope this helps. Best wishes.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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