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My new budgie is quiet, tired, and sneezing. Is he sick or nervous?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Parakeet | Male

Hello! A little blue budgie flew up to my family member while he was outside yesterday. It was oddly tame and he was even able to hold it. We gave the budgie some food and after a while, we eventually went out to see if we could have a local petstore rescue the budgie. Such wasn't allowed and we have decided to adopt him. He has a cage, water, food, some toys... I haven't heard him make a single peep besides an occasional sneeze. He seems very tired as well. Is he sick, or perhaps just nervous?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 9th, 2018

Poor little birdie! What a cutie too. It is quite possible he could have some dehydration or loss of energy due to his excursion, or could have become injured or caught some illness. If his lethargy continues, he seems to be sneezing frequently, he isn't eating well, or he seems puffed up/hunched over or is sitting on the floor of his cage then I would bring him into the vet for an examination.

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    Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on May 1st, 2019

    It's hard to tell if there is anything wrong from the photos, and the beak moving without sound could just be your bird adjusting his crop as he digests food. However, if he is looking worse than his normal, or you are seeing obvious signs of illness, it is always a good idea to schedule a vet visit in person to rule out any health issues. If he seems very ill or worsens, moving him to a hospital cage that is kept warm and away from your other birds may help make him more comfortable until your vet can take a look.

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