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Why is my parrot unsteady, slipping off perches, and favoring a leg?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Amazon | Female | unspayed | 38 years and 2 months old | 1lb

Noticed our parrot "Beanie" is growing unsteady. He slips off his perches daily and seems to be favoring his left side, meaning perhaps he tweaked his left leg or foot. Maybe arthritis or pain in the leg. What can we do to narrow that down and help our bird.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on March 22nd, 2019

Thanks for reaching out about Beanie. At this age, arthritis, gout and neurologic conditions should be considered. Radiographs and blood work would help to narrow things down. Anti-inflammatories such as meloxicam could be detrimental if gout (a renal disease) is the cause. A cardiogenic or neurologic event like a stroke need also be considered. A veterinary visit is recommended to assist, especially at this age. Good luck.

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