Quiet signs your bird might be unwell
Birds are experts at hiding illness. By the time a bird looks obviously ill, it has usually been unwell for a while.
5 min read · Dr John B. Doe ·
General information only. If you're worried about your pet, call us.
Why birds hide illness
In the wild, a bird that looks weak is a target, so they're built to act normally for as long as possible.
That makes small changes really important. You know your bird's normal better than anyone.
What to watch for
Look for fluffed-up feathers for long periods, less chatter, a change in how they perch, discharge around the nostrils or eyes, or their tail bobbing as they breathe.
Check droppings every day. Changes in colour, amount or wetness that last more than a day are worth a call.
Use the kitchen scales
A weekly weigh-in is the best early warning system there is. Use a perch on digital scales and note the weight in grams at the same time of day.
Bring your log to your bird's yearly check. It helps us a lot.