Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

What causes a canary to constantly lose balance and fall off perches?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Canary | Female

My canary seems to have constant balance problems. She is always losing her balance; she wobbles when standing and often falls off of perches when she is both awake and sleeping. She eats, drinks, and acts normally. I try to keep her on a balanced diet of fruits, veggies, seeds and egg food. I have only had her about a month and she has always been like this. I can't find any similar issues, so my question is what do you think it could be? Thanks for your time.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on August 26th, 2019

Thanks for reaching out about Olive. Ataxia or loss of balance can be an inner ear infection, paramyxovirus and other viruses, ingested or inhaled toxins, metabolic disorders (liver, kidney) and others. A veterinary visit is recommended to assist. Monitor water and food intake. If continues to fall, lower perches and provide a towel on bottom of cage to soften falling. Good luck.

Vote icon

3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored