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I have a parakeet that is spending more time on the ...

Sent to Pet Experts March 17 2006 at 7:09 PM
   

I have a parakeet that is spending more time on the bottom of the cage. Can't seem to get him to balance on the perch. He also seems to be breathing heavy. He is lathargic. Can anyone tell what might be wrong and what to do.

Optional Information:
Age: <1; Male; Breed: Parakeet

Already Tried:
Nothing so far. I am not sure what to do.

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status:  Closed   Value: $9
Answer
March 17 2006 at 7:44 PM (34 minutes and 52 seconds later)
         
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Birds in respiratory distress are seriously ill. He needs to be seen by an avian vet as soon as possible.

To read about one possible cause click here

This is about Psittacine Proventricular Dilatation Disease
which can cause loss of balance.

Here is a site you can use to locate a bird certified vet: click here

Other possible causes are:
lead poisoning
Pacheco's disease

I hope this helps you to take care of your bird. He needs help right away. These symptoms may be life-threatening so don't delay.

If you cannot get him to a vet tonight then put a heating pad, on low to medium, under his cage (if the cage can be placed on one). Make sure a small towel is between the heating pad and cage bottom. Get him to a vet as soon as you can in the morning.

Barbara Images available only to Customers.

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I hope this helped you and your little one. If so please click the "accept" button. Let me know what happens.


B.Shap
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B. Shap -- Broad Spectrum Of Animal Experience -- 100% Positive Feedback on 69 Pet Accepts
Experienced owner/breeder of Pups, Cats, Birds, +++ I'm happy to help.
Reply
March 17 2006 at 7:50 PM (6 minutes and 50 seconds later)
         
Reply to Barbara's Post: Could not covering the cage at night cause this problem and could it effect the other parakeet in the cage?
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
March 17 2006 at 7:59 PM (8 minutes and 34 seconds later)
         
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It is best if you can separate them. The sick bird could be put in a smaller cage or carrier so as to limit his movement. The other bird may pick on the sick bird too so separation is advised here.

I cannot know if this is a contagious condition. Probably not. Only a vet would know for sure. You ought to call a 24-hour animal emergency clinic to talk to them about caring for him until you can get to a vet.

Covering the cage would have nothing to do with his condition. It is a good idea to keep him warm. If you think covering will help that's fine.



B.Shap
Picture
B. Shap -- Broad Spectrum Of Animal Experience -- 100% Positive Feedback on 69 Pet Accepts
Experienced owner/breeder of Pups, Cats, Birds, +++ I'm happy to help.
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