Parrots are masters at hiding illness, it's a survival instinct in the wild, where showing weakness can make them a target. As a responsible parrot owner, it's vital to learn the subtle signs that something might be wrong. Often, by the time a bird shows clear symptoms, they’ve already been unwell for some time.

Below is a list of 15 common signs that may indicate your parrot is sick, with one extra bonus sign that you must NEVER ignore. If you notice any of these, it's best to consult an avian vet as soon as possible.

1. Fluffed-Up Feathers for Long Periods

While parrots often fluff up their feathers to get comfortable or regulate temperature, a constantly puffed-up appearance can indicate fever, pain, or general discomfort.

2. Sleeping More Than Usual

A parrot that is unusually quiet or sleepy, especially during times they are usually active, may be unwell.

3. Sitting at the Bottom of the Cage

This is often a very serious sign. Parrots generally perch, so sitting on the floor suggests weakness or severe illness.

4. Lack of Appetite or Sudden Weight Loss

Refusing food, dropping favourite treats, or noticeable weight loss are major red flags.

5. Changes in Droppings

Healthy droppings have three parts: a clear liquid (urine), a white part (urates), and a dark solid part (faeces). Watch for:

Changes in colour
Increase or decrease in volume
Runny, watery, or very smelly droppings
Undigested food in droppings

6. Laboured or Open-Mouth Breathing

Breathing with the beak open, tail bobbing with each breath, or wheezing sounds may suggest a respiratory problem. Birds in distress may also breathe faster than normal.

7. Discharge From the Nostrils or Eyes

Runny, crusty, or swollen nares or eyes can indicate infection or allergies.

8. Lethargy or Lack of Interaction

If your parrot suddenly becomes quiet, disinterested in play, or no longer engages with you, it may be feeling poorly.

9. Changes in Voice or Vocalisations

A raspy voice, reduced volume, or complete silence can be a warning sign, especially if it’s a sudden change.

10. Overgrown or Deformed Beak and Nails

A healthy parrot naturally wears down its beak and nails. Overgrowth could suggest nutritional deficiencies, liver disease, or other health concerns.

11. Weakness or Wobbly Perching

A bird that loses balance, falls off perches, or has difficulty climbing could be showing signs of neurological or muscular issues.

12. Excessive Sleeping With Eyes Closed

Parrots do nap during the day, but excessive daytime sleep or eyes constantly closed might mean fatigue or illness.

13. Ruffled or Dirty Feathers

Birds are typically meticulous groomers. Matted, dirty, or unkempt feathers suggest your parrot isn’t feeling well enough to preen or can be a sign of deficiency or disease.

14. Vomiting or Regurgitating

Vomiting (which involves shaking the head and flinging of wet stringy mucous or food) is different from regurgitation (a bonding behaviour). True vomiting can signal serious internal issues.

15. Behavioural Changes

Sudden aggression, clinginess, or withdrawal from usual routines can be caused by underlying illness or pain.

BONUS SIGN

A final bonus sign that your parrot is sick is black poo, this can be a sign of internal bleeding, especially if this occurs soon after a traumatic injury.

What To Do If You Notice These Signs

Contact an Avian Vet Immediately
Don’t wait. Birds can decline quickly. Always contact an avian vet, not just a general veterinarian.
Keep Your Parrot Warm and Calm
Move them to a warm, quiet area and reduce stress as much as possible.
Monitor Food and Water Intake
Keep track of what they eat and drink, as this helps your vet get a clearer picture.
Don’t Try to Medicate at Home
Never give human medications or supplements unless directed by an avian vet.

Preventing Illness in Parrots

Provide a clean cage with fresh food and water daily
Feed a varied, nutrient-rich diet
Rotate perches and toys to reduce boredom and stress
Avoid exposing your bird to smoke, Teflon fumes, or mould
Quarantine and disease test new birds before introducing them to your existing flock
Get regular avian vet checkups

Final Thoughts

Catching illness early could mean the difference between life and death. Trust your instincts—if your parrot seems “off,” don’t ignore it. A proactive approach, paired with good daily care, will help ensure your bird enjoys a long, healthy life with you.

15 Signs Your Parrot Might Be Sick (And What to Do About It)