Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My parakeet bobs head & clicks beak eating pellets. Is he choking?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Male | unneutered | 10 months and 11 days old

Hello! I have a young parakeet that I have had for a few months. When he eats he bobs his head up and down and clicks his beak almost like he is trying to swallow his pellets. Is he choking? He doesn't do this with seeds and he only does it every once and a while. Should I be worried? Thanks!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Kevin Sanada, DVM

Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 12th, 2017

What you are describing sounds like a normal behavior they occasionally have when eating and drinking. They also do a similar thing when they are happy, so maybe he does it for a certain food he likes.

I would not be too worried as long as Sky is otherwise acting normal.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button