My Senegal parrot is shaking its head. Should I take it to the vet?

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.

Thanks for reaching out about Kiwi and including photos. Sneezing and shaking a head are a possible indication of an upper respiratory infection. This bird should be assessed by a veterinarian, as one of the possibilities are chlamydophila which could be transmitted to other birds and people. Heat support and good nutrition can help but should not be used in lieu of a veterinary visit. Good luck.

Some neurologic, muscular, diseases processes, and nutritional issues can cause similar symptoms. It would be best to bring Parrot into a local vet ASAP to have him examined, bloodwork taken and possible X-rays taken to look for underlying issues and provide treatment. In the meantime, making sure he is kept calm and quiet, can still access food and water (and is eating a balanced diet of seeds and pellets for budgies) and separating him from any other birds in the cage can help him feel more comfortable until the underlying cause can be determined.

Hi, and thanks for your question. This sign could be compatible with an upper respiratory tract inflammation/infection or possibly to a chronic rhinitis (inflammatory, allergic, infective). A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

Thanks for reaching out about Baby. Yes, it is likely your parakeet is ill, with a possible respiratory disease. Tail bobbing is a typical sign of increased effort for inspiration. The head hanging down is a sign of weakness. Remove perches and place a soft towel on the bottom of the cage, on which to stand in comfort. Providing heat support in the 80-85 F range can also give aid. There are no over the counter medications which to give, so a veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. Reach out to local rescue groups or the humane society to inquire regarding financial assistance. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Peach. Shaking can be from many reasons. Being too cold is one, most parrots are comfortable in 80-85 degree weather. They shiver to create heat. Covering the cage will not generate any additional heat, so a heat lamp should be provided. Shaking can also result from being sick. A veterinary visit is needed to arrive at a diagnosis and treatment plan. Good luck.

If Narashi is otherwise happy and healthy he may just be excited and playful and thus is flapping around and moving. If he seems in distress, can't balance, or is showing other signs of illness, then an issue such as illness, injury, neurologic or muscular issues, etc may be causing it. If you suspect this may be the case, an exam from your vet is best.