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My bird is having fits, falling, and shaking. Could it be a seizure?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Male | unneutered

Hi, I live in the US and have a pet European Starling, he's about 5 years old and have been very healthy. But lately he's been having fits where he wildly flaps around his cage and falls off his perch. He sits with his beak open and sometimes closes his eyes and shudders a bit. He bathes, eats, sings/talks, drinks and poos regularly but he just worries me. Could he be ill?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on May 22nd, 2018

That is concerning that this is happening. Even if he is acting normal otherwise, I'd be concerned about something neurologic going on, or even something like a seizure. Loss of balance is a serious sign, so seeking vet care and ruling out any more serious issues is a good first step. If he checks out healthy, looking for any triggers may help you determine what is going on. Is there a loud noise right before? A TV turned on? Does it happen at night (night frights), etc. If you can pinpoint a potential cause, you may be able to take steps to prevent it such as moving the cage to a quieter location, covering it at night, adding in a night light, lower, flat perches, etc.

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