https://www.chewy.com/education/bird/parrot/top-10-pet-budgie-parakeet-vet-questions-and-answers
*Parakeets, also known as budgies, are gentle companions with bright energy. The Parakeet Education Hub explores the basics of care, including socialization, cage size, diet, and training - making it easy to support a healthy, happy bird.
Parakeets are prone to several common health issues that owners should be aware of.
Chronic low grade bacterial infections can arise, especially if water is offered in bowls that can easily become contaminated with droppings or food. Providing water via a bottle is a safer option, as budgies quickly learn to use it.
Nutritional imbalances are also common in budgies fed mostly seed based diets, potentially leading to yeast infections or obesity related liver problems.
Overgrown beaks and nails may indicate liver disease or simply a lack of natural wear.
Parasites like Giardia and roundworms can affect budgies and mites may cause crusty growths around the cere and nares, which require veterinary treatment to prevent permanent damage.
Additionally, changes in cere color can signal hormonal shifts or health issues like tumors, while behaviors such as eating their own droppings are abnormal and should be addressed by cage modifications.
Maintaining a clean environment and monitoring their health are crucial for their well being.
Using a water bottle reduces contamination risk, but water should still be changed regularly, and bathing water should be offered occasionally.
Cage bottoms with grates should be cleaned often to prevent bacterial or fungal infections from droppings and leftover food.
Beak length should be observed, as some birds naturally wear down their beaks while others may need veterinary care for overgrowth or deformities.
Regular weighing helps track health, with a healthy budgie typically weighing between 25 and 35 grams.
Female budgies that lay excessive eggs may require environmental changes or veterinary advice to prevent calcium depletion.
Finally, wing feather trimming is recommended for safety and taming purposes, as it prevents accidental escapes and injuries, though it should be done carefully to allow controlled gliding rather than abrupt falls.
Chewy editorial team shares the 10 most common vet questions and answers about caring for your beloved feathered companion, helping you feel more confident and prepared to give your them the best life possible.
