Why does my parakeet sneeze and rub his face only at bedtime?

Thanks for reaching out about Cloud and including photos. Sneezing can be a normal behavior to clear the nostrils, especially in a dusty environment. Respiratory discharge or secretions, difficulty breathing, quiet and lethargic are all indications of possible illness and should be check out by a veterinarian. Good luck.

An occasional itch and sneeze is not very concerning. Sometimes, they will have a long-term sinus infection after recovering from a respiratory disease. These infections are very difficult to diagnose and treat. At this time, it doesn't seem like he is having bad enough signs to warrant an investigation or treatment into this problem. If you are not noticing any nose discharge, and Jade is otherwise acting normal, then I think it's fine to not bring her into the vet right now. Although, it would be best to have a general exam done by an avian veterinarian at some point. Make sure that there is not something like perfumes/other scents, smoke, or excessive dust in the environment. Even the slightest amount of these aerosols can irritate their respiratory tract. I hope that helps.

An occasional sneeze with no discharge or other symptoms (lethargy, loose droppings, difficulty breathing, etc) is no cause for concern. Monitor for any progression or additional symptoms and see a veterinarian if necessary.

Based on the condition of the environment that you are describing and the sneezing and nasal discharge your bird is having, I would be concerned about an upper respiratory tract infection. Your bird will likely need antibiotics and possibly a nebulizer to help open up his airways. I hope this helps. Best of luck with your new bird. Thanks for sing Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Many birds, including budgies, will sleep with their heads nestled down over their backs and between their wings, especially at night. This is perfectly normal behavior. However, a bird that isn't feeling well will spend more time with its heads nestled down into its feathers and less time engaging in preening, eating, playing, and other normal activities. A sick bird may also stop vocalizing, sit puffed or fluffed up, sneeze or have discharge from their nares, have loose stools, have stools caked around the vent, and/or pick at its food or not eat at all. So, if your bird seems listless or is exhibiting any of the above symptoms, seek veterinary attention right away.

You should not bath your budgie actively, only provide a container with water at the bottom of the cage and he will bath himself if he wants to. keep an eye on that sneezing, if it doesn't resolve within 2-3 days- take him to the vet to get it treated.

Poor little birdie! What a cutie too. It is quite possible he could have some dehydration or loss of energy due to his excursion, or could have become injured or caught some illness. If his lethargy continues, he seems to be sneezing frequently, he isn't eating well, or he seems puffed up/hunched over or is sitting on the floor of his cage then I would bring him into the vet for an examination.