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New parrotlet puffed up. Is my bird sick even if he's eating?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

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

We have a new bird, parrotlet, and he has been puffed up since yesterday. He was still chirping today and still getting around in his cage. He’s eating but I’m worried he’s sick

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Emi Knafo, DVM, DACZM

Answered By Emi Knafo, DVM, DACZM

Veterinarian, Board-Certified Zoological Medicine Specialist

Published on December 7th, 2017

Hi! Tiki is adorable! Congratulations on your new pet. Birds are often fluffed when they don’t feel well but they can also be fluffed if they’re cold or tired. If he’s eating and acting fine, evaluate the temperature in the room and presence of any drafts. If he is quieter, or has any change in appetite, defecation or activity, see a veterinarian without delay as birds can become seriously ill quickly. Regardless, I would recommend taki Tiki to a veterinarian for a new pet exam. This will establish a relationship with a local vet, create a baseline of health data for Tiki, and give you the opportunity to ask any ther questions you may have about Tiki and his care. Good luck!
Vote Icon2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Miranda Sadar, DVM, DACZM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 4th, 2018

    Thanks for your question, and I am sorry to hear that Trickee may not be feeling great! When a bird gets fluffed or starts sitting in one spot for extended periods of time, we do worry that they don't feel well. They can also fluff because of temperatures in their environment - I would encourage you to evaluate the location of the cage and ensure that there are no drafts and no excessive heat from a window.
    Once you have addressed these items, it the signs continue, I would recommend taking Trickee in to see a veterinarian. They can perform a thorough physical examination of Trickee and try to determine why he is becoming fluffed. They may have recommendations for diagnostics and treatments depending on what is found as well.
    I hope that gives you a place to start, and I hope Trickee feels better soon!

    Vote Icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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