My bird is weak, light-sensitive, and breathing fast. What's wrong?

Pronounced tail bobbing coupled with a bit of lethargy may indicate respiratory distress or illness. Ideally, Pepper should be physically examined by your veterinarian or an experienced avian vet to diagnose and treat infection or injury. By the time birds begin to show any symptoms, they can be quite ill. In the meantime, keep him warm and as stress free as possible until he sees the doctor. Monitor for additional symptoms such as loose droppings or loss of appetite.

The tail bobbing, opening and closing mouth may be indications of respiratory difficulties. This may bebdut ot infection (bacterial, fungal or parasites) or trauma. The fluffed feathers, when taken with other symptoms may further point to potential illness. Ideally, she should be physically examined by your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment. Birds are quite adept at concealing illness or injury so by the time they start to show symptoms, they may be very sick.

Thanks for reaching out about Greenie. A veterinary visit is needed ASAP. Fast tail bobbing is an indication of severe respiratory disease. This can be aspiration, infection, enlarged abdominal organ, or other causes. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Budgie. This is often a sign of serious respiratory disease. The tail is bobbing to assist in inspiration, like a billows. A veterinary visit is needed as soon as possible. Possibilities include a bacterial or fungal infection, enlarged organ (liver, spleen), or pain. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about your budgie. The signs you are describing sound like there may be a respiratory issue going on in your bird. Tail bobbing can occur when birds are having difficulty breathing, and the scratching at the cere can indicate irritation. The other signs that she is having can occur with many diseases. I would recommend taking your budgie to a veterinarian for evaluation. If this is not an option in your area, I would recommend ensuring that your bird is kept in a warm environment and be sure that the nostrils are not blocked. Provide low or no perches in a small hospital cage and ensure that good and water are within easy reach. I hope this gives you a place to start, and that your bird feels better soon.

Hello. I am sorry that Bobo isn't feeling well. It does sound like Bobo is very very sick. I would recommend having him to a vet right away. Birds do not show they are sick unless they are severely compromised, and a parakeet sitting on the bottom of a cage breathing hard could be near death. It also sounds like Bobo might be suffering. If you can get him to a vet right away I would suggest this. Best of luck with Bobo.

Thanks for reaching out about Baby. Yes, it is likely your parakeet is ill, with a possible respiratory disease. Tail bobbing is a typical sign of increased effort for inspiration. The head hanging down is a sign of weakness. Remove perches and place a soft towel on the bottom of the cage, on which to stand in comfort. Providing heat support in the 80-85 F range can also give aid. There are no over the counter medications which to give, so a veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. Reach out to local rescue groups or the humane society to inquire regarding financial assistance. Good luck.