Is Your Bird Healthy?

Birds are among the most populated animals on the planet, with over 8.3 million pet birds in America alone (Brazil takes the top spot with over 191 million!) as reported by Pet Secure! With that many feathered beauties in loving homes, sickness and health issues are bound to happen. Taking good care of your pet bird with nutritious food, playtime, and an enriching home environment can keep illness away. However, there are smaller signs to keep an eye out for, to catch any developing health issues early - and nip them in the bud!

Check Their Eyes and Nose

Healthy pet birds have clear and bright eyes that move easily and respond relatively quickly to movement or points of interest. Slightly shiny eyes show a healthy mucus membrane. How does your feathered family member breathe? Nostrils free of debris mean their breathing is even and clear. 

If your bird has eyes that have redness, swelling, or discharge, they may need treatment and are best served in the care of a veterinarian. Nostrils that have debris should be cleared safely. If your bird’s tail feathers are bobbing during breathing, it may indicate a respiratory disease.

Don’t Get Your Feathers in a Ruffle!

Their feathers are a key indicator of health. A shiny set of vibrantly colored feathers that are even and full means that your bird’s skin is healthy and happy, and they are not engaging in picking behavior. The next time you’re petting your bird, check their skin to ensure that it is translucent, free of bumps, flakes, lumps, and soft.

Any bald spots on the feathers need monitoring, as behavioral issues can create picking of the skin.

How Are Their Weight and Mobility?

Bird body weights vary from species to species, but a healthy weight ensures their mobility will keep them healthy throughout their life. How does your bird move about the cage? Frequent movement and adjustments - without favoring one side over the other - is a sign of a healthy pet bird.

Overweight birds can experience better health by being properly fed nutritious bird pellets in the suggested serving size. Birds that favor one side over the other may need veterinary care to avoid any anatomical pains or issues.

 Bowels and Body Movements

We all have bowel movements, and the health of your pet bird is no exception. Regularly sized and routine bowel movements are a sign of healthy digestion. Check droppings for consistency to set your pet’s baseline. Sudden changes in their baseline could be due to stress, formula/food changes, or digestive illness.

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