Why is my parakeet breathing hard, puffed, and can't use its claw?

Thanks for reaching out about Blu. What did it get bit by? If a mammal or open wounds, probably needs to see a veterinarian, at least for antibiotics. But also possible foot fracture and/or pain medications. Provide heat support due to cold weather. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Blueberry. If lethargic and weak, a veterinary visit is recommended to provide some support care but also to investigate the bleeding, and possible antibiotics. Good luck.

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Greenna! I can definitely see how her foot is bent inwards, with the claw somewhat contracted. This can be caused by many conditions, but unfortunately, she needs to be seen by vet to figure out what is going on and get some treatment options. This can be caused by nerve damage, a fracture, or a systemic infection, among several other conditions. I hope this helps!

Thanks for reaching out about Pablo. This could either be a leg injury (fracture, luxation, neurologic) or an enlarged organ (kidney, testicle) placing pressure on nerve to that leg. A veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. For now, remove perches and place a thick towel on the bottom of the cage on which to stand. Place food and water within reach. 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.

Thanks for reaching out about Dudo. Lipomas or fatty deposits are a common condition of budgies, and can be large enough to impinge on the cloacal area, making it difficult to defecate. Fat deposits can also happen in the liver and abdominal cavity that can reduce respiratory capacity. Diet is the primary cause, too much seed. If continues to have breathing concerns, a veterinary visit is recommended to assess for secondary bacterial infections. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Bhola. Weak or paralyzed legs in older parakeets are often associated with renal or gonadal masses that impinge on the nerves that supply the legs. Potent anti-inflammatories might help shrink the masses but probably will not cure. Quality of life should be considered. Good luck.