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Birds--General/5 year old male parakeet
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Question
This bird has been having increasing imbalance problems which increase and then wane. When severe, there is transient twitching and seizure like episodes. He is extremely sensitive to temperature and stays puffed up when weather is cooler. Otherwise he is able to fly around, although he is weaker. Appetite is good. Stool is slightly looser and gray in color. Respiratory is OK. I have isolated him at present, although two other cage mates have never exhibited these symptoms over the past year since this began. Could it be something like a stroke? Your consult would be appreciated. Thank you.
Hi, Bob. Thanks for posting!
Yes, could be something like a stroke. Could be the result of toxcicity, poor diet, etc. This bird definitely has some type of central nervous system problem. I recommend you take him to an avian veterinarian for a medical evaluation ASAP (not a cat/dog vet, but an exotic animal vet certified in treating aves). Do you need help locating an avian veterinarian?
Chrys
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Answers by Expert:
Chrys Meatyard
Expertise
I`ve been raising/breeding/handfeeding/selling parrots for over 20 years (parakeets/budgies, cockatiels, 6 subspecies of conures, parrotlets, amazons, lovebirds, etc.). I've been published in "Budgies" and "Cockatiels" offered by Bow Tie Productions, and have written avian articles for publication in England. I can provide advice in raising healthy birds, handfeeding/weaning babies, some health problems (although I'm NOT an avian veterinarian), nail/beak/wing clipping, general husbandry, etc. I also have experience with racing/showing homing pigeons. I cannot diagnose specific illness over this website. If you suspect your bird is ill or if you have an emergency, contact an avian veterinarian or emergency pet clinic ASAP.
Experience
Experience: Over 20 years raising parrots and over 13 years raising pigeons. Organizations: Currently, American Racing Pigeon Union and American Federation of Aviculture. Prior member Miami Valley Bird Club, Southern Ohio Pigeon Association, National Cockatiel Society, Miami Valley Sportsman's Club, others. Publications: Monthly newsletters of bird clubs.
Publications
I've been published in "Budgies" and "Cockatiels" offered by Bow Tie Productions, and have written avian articles for publication in England.
Education/Credentials
American Federation of Aviculture, completed Level I course, Fundamentals of Aviculture. Keeping/breeding parrots and other birds for over 20 years.
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