Recognizing Pain in Your Companion Bird

Overview

Birds are natural prey animals, which means they often hide signs of pain and illness very effectively. As a bird owner, recognizing these subtle signs is crucial for ensuring your bird’s health and comfort. Observing your bird when they are unaware you are watching can sometimes provide the most accurate picture of their well-being. Using a video camera or your mobile phone can help with this observation.

Signs Your Bird Might Be in Pain

• Weight Loss: Regularly weigh your bird on accurate digital scales to monitor any changes in weight, as weight loss is often an early indicator of health issues.
• Fluffed-Up Plumage: Birds often fluff their feathers to keep warm when they are ill or in pain.
• Poor Feather Quality: Noticeable changes in feather condition can indicate health issues that require attention.
• Reduced Mobility: If your bird is staying in one place, having difficulty perching, or showing signs of lameness, this could be a sign of discomfort.
• Change in Temperament: Sudden changes in behavior, such as a normally calm bird becoming aggressive or a typically aggressive bird becoming unusually docile, can signal pain.
• Guarding the Area: Your bird may protect certain areas of their body if they are in pain.
• Over-Grooming: Excessive feather plucking or chewing can be a response to pain or stress.
• Not Eating or Reduced Food Intake: A decrease in food consumption can indicate underlying health issues.
• Fast Breathing or Tail Bobbing: Rapid breathing or noticeable tail bobbing when your bird breathes can be a sign of respiratory distress. You can count breathing rates at home by measuring how many breaths they take in 15 seconds and multiplying by four.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

If you observe any of these behaviors in your bird, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian as soon as possible. Early detection and intervention can greatly improve outcomes for your feathered friend.

Contact our reception team at Animal Republic Veterinary Hospital and ER to schedule an appointment with a member of our exotics team. We are here to provide the care and support your bird needs to stay healthy and happy.