Why is my budgie tired, breathing rapidly, and struggling to poop?

Thanks for reaching out about Mo Mo. Sounds as if he is ill and needs to see a veterinarian. Animals don't get sick because their old, but an organ system starts to have problems. The lump on the chest could be a lipoma, common in budgies. On the bottom of the cage is an indication of weakness. Liver or renal concerns are high on the list. A veterinary visit is recommended, ASAP. Good luck.

Unfortunately, without an in person exam, it would be hard to say what exactly is going on. Egg-binding can definitely cause an obstruction and protrusion like pictured, as can issues with the vent being clogged with stool or underlying illness. If you suspect egg binding, you can try putting her in a warm water bath to help break up any stool crusted to her vent and to help the muscles to relax some to see if she can pass the egg. Since budgie eggs are so delicate I wouldn't recommend trying to remove it on your own as it can easily break inside her. Moving her to a hospital cage that is kept warm and with low perches/easy access to food can also help, as can catching her to help keep her vent clean and free of debris. I would also bring her back to a vet ASAP if the medication given is not helping.

With the signs of both heavy breathing and abnormal droppings, I would be concerned that Albert is sick. He may also be stressed by his new environment but that doesn’t typically cause the extent of changes as what you are describing. I would recommend having Albert evaluated by a veterinarian. Please collect some of the droppings and take them with you to the visit, if possible. The feces can be evaluated for parasites or abnormal bacterial populations. They may recommend treatments for Albert, depending on what is found. I hope that gives you a place to start, and good luck!

Thanks for reaching out about Meow. Possibly this is not an infectious problem, so antibiotics and anti-fungal might not help. With an all seed or heavy seed diet, fatty liver disease is possible which will not respond to the medications. Increasing protein and vitamins in the diet could help, as could an increase in dietary fiber. An avian veterinary visit is still recommended. Good luck.

That does look concerning and should be checked out by a vet. Bulging of the stomach or near the vent could be any number of things including fatty deposits, growths or tumors, infections, or even an egg that is stuck and unable to pass. If she seems in distress, seeking veterinary care ASAP is best. Keeping her warm, eating, and drinking may help, however having it looked at is needed.

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.

I would recommend taking Charlie to an avian veterinarian. Tell bobbing in increased respiratory rate may be indicative of a primary respiratory disease or signs of stress. Budgies can be prone to tumors that can affect grip and climbing. An avian vet can perform a physical exam then discuss likely problems or further diagnostic testing from there. In the meantime try to limit stress and handling. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/sick-pet-birds-nursing-care Good luck and thank you for using Pet coach.