My bird's ear is swollen with white discharge. Does it need a vet?

Unfortunately, that picture is extremely blurry, so it is hard to tell what you are describing. If Tory seems otherwise normal and healthy, you can try to keep an eye on the lump and see if it changes. If it's growing rapidly or bothersome, it may indicate a growth or even abscess (infection under the skin) that requires veterinary care to treat. If you are seeing any visible wounds or debris from the site, you can use a warm washcloth to clear it away and try to keep the area clean. If she is being picked on by your other bird at all, moving her to a separate cage with easy access to food and water can help ensure she isn't more stressed and that a wound doesn't open in the affected area. If you are having trouble getting to the vet, you might want to look into a house-call service or mobile vet clinic that can come to you. It may be easier for them to get to your house where they can examine Tory in a lower-stress environment. If you do need to take her to the vet, putting her in a travel carrier with a cover over the top, such as a towel or sheet, to make it nice and dark and cool can help decrease stress when travelling, and make the trip to the vet a lot easier for the both of you.

I am concerned that your lovebird has an infection in the foot or in the joints of the foot. Sometimes if the infection becomes severe can spread into the bone which makes it very painful and more difficult heal. I would recommend taking your bird to be examined by your veterinarian. She may need to do x-rays to determine the extent of the infection and see if it has traveled into the bone. Your bird will likely need to be put on an antibiotic for a while to help clear up the infection as well. Your veterinarian can also prescribe pain medication so your lovebird can be more comfortable while the infection is healing. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Kiwi and including a good photo. This is probably otitis externa (outer ear infection) with possible inner ear involvement. These infections are usually bacterial or yeast, so a veterinary visit is needed to determine the cause. Systemic medications are probably best. Vitamin A deficiency could be an underlying component, so a review of the diet by the veterinarian is recommended. Good luck.

The right side may be a bit swollen (infection or injury) or it may be "normal" for him. Types of infection include bacterial, fungal or mites. Monitor for lethargy, discharge, loss of appetite or loose droppings. A physical exam with your veterinarian or an experienced avian veterinarian would be recommended. At the very least, Ivy may get a clean bill of health and you will get peace of mind.

Hi and thank you for using PetCoach. I am sorry Miss Bell's ear is swollen. A swollen ear can be due to an ear infection/chronic irritation (like allergies or ear mites) but could also be because of an aural hematoma. An aural hemtoma is when blood collects in the ear pinna (between the skin and cartilage). Both infections and hematomas can be painful and uncomfortable. I would recommend seeing your veterinarian to do a full physical exam and treat Miss Bell's ears depending on the diagnosis. Here are some articles that may be helpful for you: 1. Aural Hematomas: https://www.petcoach.co/article/ear-hematomas-in-dogs/ 2. Aural Hematomas: https://www.vin.com/veterinarypartner/default.aspx?pid=19239&species=All&id=4951446 3. Ear Infections: https://www.petcoach.co/article/ear-infections-otitis-externa-ear-cleaning-in-dogs/ 3. Ear Infections: https://www.vin.com/veterinarypartner/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951994

It looks like the pigeon's ear may be a bit inflamed or there is some sort of growth/infection present. If they are wild birds, it would be best to contact a local wildlife rescue or animal control in your area so they can safely capture, examine, and treat the birds before releasing them back into the wild.

Andrea, I am sorry Rosa is not feeling well. Without an exam or diagnosis, it would be difficult to recommend any medications or treatment. Ideally, Rosa should be examined by your veterinarian or an experienced avian veterinarian to diagnose illness or injury. Once that is done, the appropriate action can be taken. In the meantime, keep her warm and as stress free as possible. Make sure she is eating and drinking normally.