Birds automatically mask signs of illness. In the wild, a bird that behaved as if it were sick would be selected by predators. For this reason, even tame birds try not to reveal they are sick, and appear to behave normally as long as possible.

    To maintain proper health of your bird, have a health check for your bird at least once or twice a year so that unrecognized disease problems may be diagnosed and treated before they become emergencies.  Proper diet and care should be discussed during the routine evaluation to optimize health and prevent many disease processes.

    For both sick birds and to screen healthy-looking birds, very common and necessary tests include a CBC and profile. These tests are performed on a small blood sample. Our hospital has the ability to run these tests on birds as small as a canary, often in less than 20 minutes.

Obtaining this information quickly is often critical to determining the best treatment needed in time to save the bird. These initial tests help to localize the areas needed to evaluate further. Other tests or treatment may be indicated by their results, and there are also specific tests to look for certain diseases.

It is to be expected that a bird may become ill or injured at some point in it’s life, but losing birds needlessly to these problems is not. Proper diet and routine care can prevent many diseases and health issues. Early detection and action on your part can save birds’ lives and will save you much money in the long run as well.

Hillary Frank, D.V.M., Dipl. ABVP (avian) is the owner of North Central Animal Hospital, P.C., 20 W. Dunlap Ave. She can be reached at 602-395-9773. The information in “Pet Primer” is provided as general information only. For specific veterinary advice on your pet, consult your veterinarian