The Most Common 5 Diseases Affecting Pet Birds

July 20, 2024

When owning a bird, It is important to understand and be aware of common diseases that can occur in our feathered friends. There are many diseases that come in the form of microbes varying from bacteria, virus, parasitic etc. So it is crucial to learn about some of the most common 5 diseases affecting pet birds and how you could prevent them. 

If you become aware of any illnesses and signs of uncharacteristic behavior it should be a major concern as one should seek the attention of a qualified avian veterinarian as soon as possible. 

Avian Polyomavirus

Avian Polyomavirus also known as AVP is a very common virus that is contagious and can infect all parrot species ranging from cockatiels, conures, lovebirds, macaws, budgies, etc. Newly born babies are at most risk of getting infected and can be lethal. Transmission can occur through direct contact with another infected bird or a person that has worked with an infected bird. 

Symptoms of Avian Polyomavirus are appetite loss, dehydration, difficulty breathing, abdominal enlargement, tremors and diarrhea. Although there is no known treatment for Avian Polyomavirus, you can avoid exposure by getting your bird vaccinated by a professional. 

Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease

Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease otherwise known as PBFD is a highly contagious virus that can occur in all members of the parrot species. Parrots under the age of three years old are highly at risk but can appear in all games. Transmission can occur direct contact with another infected bird including bird cropping, excrement, feather and skin particles. 

Symptoms of PBFD are unnaturally formed, shortened and weak feathers easily break with minor handling. The beak also looks deformed and brittle. This happens due to their immune system being weakened which can cause them to die. 

Bird Mites

Bird Mites are microscopic parasites that are about 1/32 inch long and will feed on a bird’s blood as they can’t live without blood for more than three weeks. Transmission can happen when a person or a bird that has bird mites come in contact with another bird. Bird mites have not been found to carry diseases. 

Symptoms of Bird Mites can range from constant itchiness, discomfort and swelling. This can lead to feathers falling off from constant scratching which can lead to red spots on the skin. 

Oviduct Impaction (Egg binding)

Oviduct Impaction commonly referred to as egg binding is a serious illness that happens when an egg gets stuck in a female bird during breeding and they can’t get it out naturally. You should talk to an avian vet as soon as possible if you have recognized your bird with egg binding as it can be fatal if not dealt with properly and correctly. 

Symptoms of Oviduct Impaction are swelling, rapid breathing, always fluffed up, not moving much or limited flight, distended abdomen, Anorexia. 

Iodine Deficiency

Iodine deficiency is a common illness that can lead to thyroid disease like thyroid hyperplasia. This is also known as thyroid dysplasia or a  goiter which is the enlargement and swelling of the thyroid gland. This is caused by the lack of iodine in their diet. 

Symptoms of Iodine Deficiency are clicking sounds, wheezing, difficulty breathing, poor appetite and neck looks swollen.

[Note: this can also happen to humans.]

So attentive care and awareness of common health issues that pet birds face are all crucial to its good health. The more you learn about things like Avian Polyomavirus, Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease, Bird Mites, Oviduct Impactions, and Iodine Deficiency the better your bird’s quality of life will be. For the prevention of diseases it is essential regular visits to veterinarians, vaccinations and a balanced diet. Also, close examination of your bird’s behavior and bodily signs is a necessity as this helps to detect any health problems early so that necessary action can be taken at an appropriate time increasing the chances significantly for them to live a healthy life.

Resources

[Bird Health Information from the Merck Veterinary Manual]

Mohammad Solaiman

About Author

I’m a bird lover & breeder living in New York. I always love to share the journey I have with my friends, family, and the people surrounding me. On this website, I only share my personal experiences related to birds and some informational content based on my research and the knowledge of some of my bird lover friends. While I’m not a veterinarian, none of these articles are intended to replace professional veterinary advice. If your bird has medical concerns, always seek professional assistance or take them to a vet.