As horrid as it is thinking of your beloved budgie ill, it is extremely important that you keep a
close eye out for any symptoms of sickness. Budgies tend to hide their symptoms fairly well, as in the wild they
would be in danger due to predators in the wild if they showed weakness. So as to make it a little easier and
give a ‘heads up’ on what to watch for, I will include a list (below) of possible abnormalities to add to your
budgie health check list.
Anything out of the ordinary behavior of your budgie should be watched out for.
If you notice that your budgie does look sick, then it tends to mean that unfortunately it is
pretty sick and could very well go down hill quickly. As you will be observing your budgie
daily, it shouldn’t be to difficult for a dedicated owner to see when there is any unusual or
worrying changes in your budgie.
Symptoms to keep a look out for:
· Any change in your budgies excrement (look out for a difference from the normal
amount, change in consistency and colour)
· Any noticeable change in feathers, whether it be molt or growth
· Any big changes in breathing – this is very important to keep a close eye on
· A change in their sleeping patterns (always asleep or a noticeable increase in
sleep, change in usual position of feet – for example; having both feet on the perch when
usually they have one foot up and just one on the perch, eyes not fully closed and squinting
with their head facing towards the wing and alternatively the head totally under the wing)
· Any change in the general behavior of the budgie (a change in chirping, talking,
playing, energy, preening, perching area and interaction with both humans and birds that is
off from their general disposition)
· Any bleeding at all – again, this one is very important
· Whether or not the eyes, nostrils or beak have discharge coming from them
· Black, spiked head feathers (not including when your budgie is molting)
· Any vomiting at all
· Any weight loss
· Disorientation or lack of concentration
. An increase in their water intake
. Swollen or puffed up eyes
. any lumps or swelling over the body
· if head and face feathers have semi digested seed or mucus like substances over them
· hunched over or 'droopy' stance
· inability to balance on or falling off perch and sitting in bottom of cage
. fluffed or untidy appearance
If you notice any of the aforementioned symptoms (which are all very important and could mean much
suffering for your budgie if ignored or untreated) then I strongly suggest you get it checked out by a vet
that is well experienced with birds and therefore will give you the correct diagnosis. It is much better
to be safe than sorry when it's potentially your budgies life in the balance.
Why not join our friendly discussion forum and chat about budgies. We offer lots of support and advise
to help you care for your budgie. join our very friendly group of members, we even have a online shop
Where you can buy your budgie foods, budgie cages, budgie treats, budgie toys and more! Click here
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