https://www.chewy.com/education/bird/health-and-wellness/bird-blood-blood-loss
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Chewy editorial team highlights that while the topic of blood and bleeding can alarm many bird owners and understanding how avian blood works can ease fears and help guide proper care.
Blood is a specialized connective tissue vital for oxygen transport, waste removal, and immune response.
It consists of red blood cells, thrombocytes for clotting, and plasma that carries essential nutrients and hormones.
On average, a bird’s blood volume is about 10% of its body weight, and up to 1% of that can typically be drawn safely for testing in healthy birds.
Blood loss, whether from trauma, surgery, or illness, can lead to anemia if not properly addressed.
A bird may tolerate up to 30% blood loss in some cases, but excessive loss can result in shock - a serious condition that will require immediate veterinary intervention and supportive care like fluids, iron, and vitamin supplementation.
Birds may also receive blood transfusions when needed, with the best outcomes occurring when donors are from the same species.
Cross matching ensures compatibility before transfusion, and although avian transfusion practices are still evolving, they can be lifesaving.
While birds may manage blood loss better than mammals, prompt action remains critical.
Owners should always have a bird specific first aid kit, be familiar with basic bleeding control methods, and contact an avian veterinarian without delay during emergencies.
