New parakeet tail bobbing, puffed, breathing heavy. Stressed or sick?

Question

We just got a second parakeet three days ago and since we've had him he's been tail bobbing, puffed up most of the time, sleepy and sits with his head hanging low. He does eat and drink and is periodically active but does look like he's breathing heavy compared to our other parakeet. Is he just stressed out or is he sick and should we take him to the vet? Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Male | unneutered

Karly Macon, DVM, MS, CVA Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist · Accepted Answer

Hi there! Birds often having underlying lung infections that can start to become evident during periods of stress, like moving or changing owners. I suspect this is what's going on with Boo. Very observant of you to notice the heavy breathing. However, unless you can find an avian specialist veterinarian, it might be best to observe him for a few days as he settles in instead of rushing him to the nearest small animal vet. Birds are definitely different species and many small animal vets don't feel comfortable treating them. If he seems to settle in and do ok, I would not take him anywhere, as the stress of a visit could make a mild infection much worse. Hope that helps!

New parakeet tail bobbing, puffed, breathing heavy. Stressed or sick?

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