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My budgie is sleeping a lot and losing feathers. Is he sick?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

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

My budgie is sleeping in the morning i noticed it today and he is loosing his feathers

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on October 28th, 2017

Sparky does look a bit rough from the photos you provided. As feather loss and listless behavior are both very vague signs of many different possible issues, it would be best to try and find a vet in your area that could take a look at him. Nutrition issues, parasites, illness, injury and more can all be possible causes. Until you can get to the vet, keeping him separated from other birds in a hospital cage that is kept warm and with easy access to food and water may help.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Jessica Desrosiers
Veterinary Technician
Published on August 19th, 2018
Without a photo it's hard to tell. It could be the feathers won't grow in until Savage's next molt, and so the area may remain bald. If he's housed with other birds, it could be that the other birds are still plucking out any new feathers, preventing them from growing back in. If he was injured or ill, there could still be an infection of the skin or other damage to the area preventing feather growth-- having a vet take a look at the area is a good next step to rule out any health issues that could be causing this.

If he is housed with other birds that are still picking on him, moving him to a separate cage or adding in additional food and water dishes, perches to break up the space, etc can help reduce stress and fighting which could lead to injuries or feather plucking.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Ady Y. Gancz, DVM, ABVP (Avian), ECZM
Veterinarian, Board-certified avian specialist
Published on November 25th, 2017
Hi and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach,
This could be serious. Sky will need some tests done (e.g. bloodwork) before an accurate diagnosis can be made. It is important that you take him to an avian vet ASAP as little birds can deteriorate quickly.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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