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Why is my bird still sick after antibiotics for respiratory infection?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Conure | Male | unneutered

Could there be something different wrong with my bird? He was diagnosed with a respiratory infection by the vet a week and a half ago and prescribed antibiotics every 12 hours for two weeks. He is still sneezing and producing wet discharge from his nares. Other than that he is fine. He’s eating, drinking, vocalizing and playing like normal. His weight is staying the same as well. Sometimes I see him shake but it’s not constantly and he’s not puffed up.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on October 13th, 2019

Thanks for reaching out about Sunny. Nasal discharge can be caused by a few things: bacterias, fungi, viruses, inflammation, foreign bodies, vitamin A deficiency, and more. Not all antibiotics work on all bacteria. Were any cultures performed? Short 10-15 minute bouts in the steamy bathroom might relieve some congestion. Diet should be reviewed to provide adequate vitamin A. Ensure that Sunny is away from the kitchen, especially when cooking or other aerosols or aromatic sources. If the sneezing does not clear, diagnostic tests should be performed to determine a cause. Good luck.

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    Answered By Todd Cecil

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 15th, 2019

    Thanks for reaching out about Raimu. Were any diagnostics test performed (radiographs, blood work)? Nausea, upper respiratory disease, gastritis, are all possible causes, many of which are not treated with antibiotics. Providing heat support in the 80-85 F range can give some comfort. Not all antibiotics treat all infections, so maybe a different antibiotics or longer treatment period. Good luck.

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