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My parrot is open mouth hissing, head shaking, and sneezing. Why?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Parrot | Male | unneutered | 15 years and 6 months old

My Quaker parrot Shonnie has been doing this weird open mouth hiss with a minor head shake for about 2-3 months. It seems like a yawn but I’m unsure. I know his sleep schedule has been crazy lately with our big move to a new state. What could this behavior be? He also has developed an infrequent sneeze.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on December 29th, 2019

Thanks for reaching out about Shonnie. Head shaking is a common clinical sign of an upper respiratory infection, as is the sneeze. The stress of the move might have lead to immune suppression and progression of clinical signs. Short periods of time in a warm, steamy bathroom, a few times daily might help hydrate the sinuses but a veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. Since this has been occurring for several months, it is unlikely to improve or heal on its own. Other possibilities include fungal infections, nasal foreign bodies, metabolic disorders and more. Check and correct diet as vitamin A deficiencies can lead to secondary infections.
Good luck.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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