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Is my lovebird regurgitating or vomiting? When to worry and call vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Exotic | Unknown - Exotic | Male | unneutered | 10 years and 8 months old

Is it normal for a lovebird to kind of throw up on the standing thingy (the thing where he eats and sleeps)? Should I call the vet? I'm worried because it's the the second time I caught him doing it. Thanks.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on March 2nd, 2017

Vomiting in a bird is not normal but they do sometimes regurgitate. This is done to feed chicks or to show affection to a mate or human to which they are bonded. Vomiting is typically characterized by a quick flick of the head. Most owner will miss this but will see digested food stuck to the bars, perches and bowls in the cage. A bird that is regurgitating will bob its head and stretch out its neck. The food regurgitated is frequently whole, undigested food. Monitor Kiki for continued vomiting, lethargy, loose droppings or loss of appetite. A visit to your veterinarian or to a vet experienced in treating birds would be recommended if symptoms persist or worsen.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 13th, 2017

    This is likely regurgitation rather than vomiting. They will regurgitate their food and eat it more commonly for certain behavioral reasons sometimes. If she is just doing this for a day and is otherwise acting normal, then I would wait a day or two before taking her to the vet. If this has been going on for more than two days, then it could indicate a crop infection and I would recommend having Violet seen by a veterinarian. There are a few different infections they can get in their crop and a veterinarian could check for signs of this if needed. I hope that helps and all is well with Violet.

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