🦠 Vet Health 2025: Psittacosis in Pet Birds—Symptoms, Risks, and How to Protect Your Flock 🦜

Psittacosis—also known as parrot fever or avian chlamydiosis—is a highly contagious disease that affects hundreds of bird species and can also infect humans. Caused by the bacteria Chlamydia psittaci, psittacosis poses a serious threat to parrot species, including cockatiels, budgies, and other pet birds. In this 2025 avian health guide, Dr Duncan Houston explains what psittacosis is, how it spreads, how to spot the signs early, and how to protect your birds—and yourself. 🧬

🔬 What Is Psittacosis?

Psittacosis is a bacterial disease caused by Chlamydia psittaci. The bacteria invade a bird’s body and multiply inside cells—especially those in the respiratory and digestive systems—leading to inflammation and organ dysfunction. 🦠

Infected birds shed the bacteria in droppings, saliva, feather dust, and respiratory secretions. When dried, these particles can become airborne and inhaled by other birds—or humans. 🫁

🦜 Which Birds Are at Risk?

While over 465 bird species are affected, psittacosis is most common in:

• 🧠 Cockatiels
• 🐥 Budgerigars (budgies)
• 🦜 Parrots, including African Greys, Amazons, and Macaws
• 🌈 Lorikeets
• 🎶 Canaries and Rosellas (less common but more symptomatic)

Even healthy-looking birds may be carriers, shedding the bacteria during stressful events like weaning, dietary changes, or overcrowding. 😟

📈 How Does It Spread?

Primary transmission route: inhalation or ingestion of particles from contaminated feces, feathers, or bodily secretions.

Other possible routes:

• 🍽️ Contaminated food, water, or toys
• 🦟 Blood-sucking insects (rare)
• 👩‍👧 Vertical transmission from infected mothers to chicks

Important note: Psittacosis can spread to humans. It’s a zoonotic disease, and caution is essential when handling infected or carrier birds. ⚠️

🧠 Signs of Psittacosis in Birds

Signs vary from subtle to severe and may resemble other diseases. Some infected birds appear healthy but shed the bacteria. These are known as carriers.

Common Symptoms:

• 👁️ Eye and nasal discharge
• 😔 Swollen, watery, or crusty eyes
• 💩 Yellow or green droppings
• 📉 Loss of appetite and weight
• 🦜 Reduced vocalization
• 😴 Lethargy or weakness
• 🪶 Ruffled feathers
• 😤 Difficulty breathing
• 🌡️ Fever
• 🚽 Diarrhea and excessive urination

Severe or Rare Symptoms:

• 🤯 Tremors or seizures
• 🌀 Head twisting or incoordination

💡 Species differences: Budgies and cockatiels often become carriers. Lorikeets and canaries tend to show severe illness. Each bird responds differently. 🧬

🧪 Diagnosing Psittacosis

Because the symptoms resemble many other illnesses, your vet may perform multiple tests, including:

• 🧫 Swabs from eyes, mouth, and vent
• 🩺 Bloodwork and radiographs
• 🧬 DNA (PCR) testing to detect bacterial presence
• 💉 Antibody testing (serology)

Important: Multiple negative tests may be needed. Carriers may shed the bacteria intermittently. 🧪

💊 Treating Psittacosis

The preferred treatment is doxycycline, given by mouth, injection, or in food or water for 2 to 8 weeks (commonly 45 days).

Supportive Care May Include:

• 💧 Fluids to prevent dehydration
• 🌡️ Heat support for weakened birds
• 🧠 Nutritional support and rest

🧠 Note: Doxycycline should not be given with calcium-rich supplements like mineral blocks or cuttlebone, as it can reduce drug absorption. 🧪

🔁 Can a Bird Recover Fully?

Yes—if treated early. But even after treatment, birds may remain carriers for life, capable of spreading the bacteria or relapsing during stress. 🔁

🛡️ How to Prevent Psittacosis in Birds and Humans

1. 🧪 Quarantine and Testing

• 🕒 Quarantine new birds for at least 30 days
• 🧬 Test all new additions for C. psittaci

2. 🧼 Sanitation and Husbandry

• 🚿 Clean cages, perches, and dishes regularly
• 💨 Provide proper ventilation and avoid overcrowding
• 🍎 Feed a balanced, species-appropriate diet

3. 👷 Protect Yourself

• 😷 Wear gloves, masks, and eye protection when cleaning cages or treating infected birds
• 🧼 Wash hands thoroughly after contact

4. 👩‍⚕️ Medical Alert

If you or someone in your household develops flu-like symptoms after bird contact, see a doctor immediately and mention psittacosis exposure. 🏥

📲 Ask A Vet: Bird Health Support & Disease Testing

Have concerns about psittacosis or introducing a new bird to your flock? Use the Ask A Vet app to connect with avian specialists like Dr Duncan Houston for testing plans, care guidance, and biosecurity tips. 🦜📱

• 🧬 Submit lab results for review
• 📸 Send photos of symptoms
• 💬 Get help designing quarantine setups

Download the Ask A Vet app today and keep your birds—and your family—safe. 🧠

🏁 Final Thoughts: Don’t Ignore the Signs

Psittacosis is serious—but with awareness and proper care, you can prevent outbreaks and protect your birds. It’s a threat, but not a mystery. 🔍

🐾 For prevention strategies, diagnostics, and disease support, visit AskAVet.com or download the Ask A Vet app to speak with Dr Duncan Houston. Because health starts with smart, early action. 🦜💙