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My parakeet is breathing heavily. Is this normal or a health issue?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Male | 3 months and 7 days old | 0 lbs

Can it be normal for a parakeet to breathe heavily when they show no health concerns?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on September 28th, 2018

No, it is not normal. birds do not show signs of disease until the disease is in a very late stage in most cases, heavy breathing is a sign of a respiratory disease, you should take him to an avian vet specialist ASAP.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Andrea
Veterinarian
Published on April 2nd, 2018
This bird needs to see a vet ASAP! I would call PetCo as they will either have an in house vet or know where to refer you. As it has been only a week, it’s possible they may help with the bill or take the bird back.
If you have a smaller cage, or even better, an aquarium, I would put the sick bird in there with a lamp nearby for warmth or a heating pad on low under half the cage to provide extra heat. Offer favorite foods in a small bowl near the bird. Put a towel on the bottom and remove perches.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Karly Macon, DVM, MS, CVA Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Veterinarian
Published on April 5th, 2017
Hi there! Birds often having underlying lung infections that can start to become evident during periods of stress, like moving or changing owners. I suspect this is what's going on with Boo. Very observant of you to notice the heavy breathing. However, unless you can find an avian specialist veterinarian, it might be best to observe him for a few days as he settles in instead of rushing him to the nearest small animal vet. Birds are definitely different species and many small animal vets don't feel comfortable treating them. If he seems to settle in and do ok, I would not take him anywhere, as the stress of a visit could make a mild infection much worse. Hope that helps!
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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