When your pet bird falls sick... (Part 2)

Last week, we made you aware of warning signs to look out for, to ensure that your pet birds are healthy. This week, we give some more information on symptoms displayed by sick birds and what you can do on such an occasion.

* Open-mouthed breathing: Respiratory problems are among the most common bird illnesses, and unfortunately, the most serious. If you see your bird breathing with its mouth open while at rest, there is a good chance that it is not only sick, but has been for quite a while. This is one of the most serious symptoms of illness in birds, and requires immediate veterinary attention.

* Dirty feathers: Birds are, by nature, hygienic animals that bathe often and clean their feathers daily to keep them in good condition. If you notice feathers around your bird's face or rump that appear messy, gathered, or stuck together, it is an indication that your pet could be sick. Food consumption and droppings should be monitored closely for a day or so, and any changes noted. Your pet should be taken to your vet as soon as possible.

* Weight loss: Many sick birds mess their feathers when they don't feel well, effectively hiding any changes in body mass and loss of weight. Weight loss can be devastating to a bird's health, not only in terms of reduced strength, but the break-down of organ functions as well. Weigh your bird regularly so that you will know if your pet is having trouble maintaining its weight.

* Tail nodding: As with many common signs of illness in birds, repetitive nodding of the tail especially over a longer period could be indicative of a respiratory infection. Unlike people, birds lack a diaphragm to separate the chest cavity from the stomach. The muscles located at the base of the tail help birds breathe by playing a part in expanding the lungs to take in air.

If a bird is having trouble breathing, the tail muscles will work harder, causing the tail to nod up and down. Tail nodding is often not noticeable until later, in the more serious stages of illness, so if you see your bird behaving in this manner, report to the vet immediately.

* Changes in vocalisations: Much like humans, birds who don't feel well often become less talkative than usual. Pay close attention to your bird so that you can learn its normal vocalisation patterns. If you stay in tune with the way your bird behaves, it's possible to pick up on clues to the way that it feels.

If you notice any changes in frequency or general tone of your bird's vocalisations, it should be monitored for additional symptoms for the next few days. It is always better to be safe than sorry.

As far as your pet bird's health goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Birds have very delicate systems, and even a minor illness can turn into a serious threat in the blink of an eye. Early diagnosis can be vital to saving a sick bird's life.

Examine your bird daily for any signs of infection, and make sure to keep a close relationship with your avian vet. Your bird depends on you to maintain its good health.

Make sure that you keep tabs on its behaviour so that you can keep your little friend around for a very, very long time. We know how you feel if you lose your pet. So, always keep your eyes and ears open. Then, there won't be any cause for regret.

Compiled by Janani Amarasekara