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My parakeet is weak, off-balance, and sits at cage bottom. What to do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Male

my parakeet has been sick for a few weeks now , he's sits on the bottom of the cage ,he's weak walks in circles, he hangs onto the side of the cage with his beak , he off balance sleeps a lot , one side of his body seems weaker . he eats and drinks . what should i do? thank you

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on June 21st, 2017

It would be best to bring your bird to a local avian veterinarian, especially if he has been ill for a few weeks. it's possible that an underlying illness, neurologic issue, muscular disease, stroke or other problem has occurred that needs to be examined and treated as needed. In some cases birds may not recover fully, and you may need to adjust your bird's environment to help him get around a little easier, such as adding in flat platform perches or changing access to food and water.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Todd Cecil
Veterinarian
Published on August 4th, 2019
Thanks for reaching out about Blueberrry. Supplying supplemental heat at 80-85 F can give some support but is not a cure. A veterinary emergency clinic is recommended to provide subcutaneous fluids, start antibiotics. Removed perches and provide a soft towel on the bottom of the cage for comfort. Offer water via a small syringe. Possibilities include infections, metabolic disorders (liver, kidney), ingested or inhaled toxins. Once again, a veterinary visit on emergency is recommended.
Good luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Miranda Sadar, DVM, DACZM
Veterinarian
Published on September 9th, 2018
I am so sorry that this is happening to you and Harold. It is always concerning when a bird is on the bottom of the cage, and unfortunately this is a common and non-specific sign. What this means is that there are many things that can make them come to the bottom of the cage, including weakness, which is sounds like Harold is exhibiting. Weakness can result from numerous types of illnesses as well, and often in our small birds it is related to them losing their energy/fat stores quickly due to their small size and high metabolism.
I would recommend taking Harold into a veterinarian as soon as possible to have him evaluated. They can perform a thorough physical examination, and they may recommend diagnostics and/or treatments depending on what they find. Diagnostic testing that may be recommended include radiographs (x-rays) and blood work to evaluate systemic health.
I wish you the best of luck with Harold, and I hope he feels better soon!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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