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My budgie is opening its beak and sticking its tongue out. Is it sick?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Female

Cheeya is opening her beak and it almost looks like she's sticking her tongue out. Has done this a few times now repeatedly and I've never seen her do it before. It looked just like hiccups to me but after researching I found out budgies don't get hiccups. Really confused and worried.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on November 14th, 2018

Thanks for reaching out about Cheeya. Opening and closing the beak, stretching the tongue would suggest at least two things. First, having difficulty swallowing, as if something is obstructing the esophagus or crop, or she is nauseous and attempting to regurgitate. The second thing that comes to mind, is a respiratory obstruction, something caught int he trachea. Placing Cheeya in the bathroom with warm steam might help lubricate either and help. But if clinical signs get worse or don't improve, a visit to an avian veterinarian is recommended.
Good luck.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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