Why Does My Parakeet Keep Sneezing?

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Oh, springtime — warmer weather, longer days and blooming flowers.

But if you are like me and have raging allergies then spring isn’t all tulips and roses.

Spring brings on the sneezing.

If you’re a bird owner you may have noticed your feathered friend sneezing from time to time.

You might be wondering what causes your parakeet to sneeze and if you should be worried.

You do your best to provide for your pet and make sure they are comfortable and healthy.

So why does my parakeet keep sneezing?

Parakeets sneeze from time to time. It is totally natural and usually doesn’t signal any problems. Just like humans, parakeets can sneeze due to various reasons. Don’t worry about a sneeze here and there, but if you notice frequent sneezing paired with other symptoms then you may need to improve your budgie’s environment or take them to the veterinarian for a check-up.

You love your parakeet and want her to have a joyful, illness-free life.

Should you be worried about your bird sneezing?

From sneezing behavior to pet care, this article will take you through what it means when your parakeet sneezes a lot, whether or not sneezing is a sign of a problem, how you can help your sneezing bird and when to take your pet to the vet.

 

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What does it mean when a bird sneezes a lot?

When you notice your parakeet sneezing it doesn’t mean there is a problem.

Most of the time, parakeets will sneeze a few times, then ruffle their feathers and get on with their day.

All parakeets sneeze and it’s often related to their environment.

As with us humans, a room full of dust,  excessive lint in the air, or dander from a bird’s own feathers can all induce sneezing.

Fine particles irritate the nose, so birds sneeze in an attempt to discharge these unwanted particles.

This type of sneezing is completely normal and shouldn’t cause alarm.

One or two sneezes at a time is a natural reaction to dust in the air.

There are measures you can take to provide a cleaner environment and reduce the likelihood of excessive sneezing.

On the other hand, when your parakeet is exhibiting frequent sneezing this can be a sign of a bigger health problem.

 

Is it bad if my budgie sneezes?

Excessive sneezing can indicate an underlying health issue.

If you notice frequent sneezing in combination with other symptoms such as coughing, discharge from the nose and eyes or rattled breathing, then you should take your bird to the vet as soon as possible.

Your pet might be sick so it’s important you provide her with the care she needs.

When your parakeet exhibits difficulty breathing she may be suffering from a respiratory ailment that causes sneezing and discharge.

This could be anything ranging from viral illnesses, bacterial infections and fungal infections.

Other symptoms that may indicate your bird is suffering from an illness are appetite loss and lethargic behavior.

Parakeets need frequent activity and regular feeding to stay healthy.

Whenever your bird stops eating and stops moving around, you should seek treatment from a vet.

As soon as you think your parakeet might be sick you should take action.

Birds typically try and hide symptoms of sickness, so once you notice the symptoms it’s likely your parakeet has been sick for some time already.

They can hide sickness well, meaning you need to pay attention to all the signs to keep your parakeet happy and healthy.

 

How to treat a sneezing parakeet

The first step for helping your parakeet stop sneezing so much is keeping a clean home.

Making sure the air is clean at home will ensure everyone can breathe, including both you and your budgie.

Let in fresh air to promote circulation and air flow.

Open the window but make sure the cage isn’t too close to the window to avoid drafts affecting your bird.

You can even consider getting an air purifier to help clean the air and filter out unwanted dust, dirt and particles.

Clean the cage regularly and be sure to vacuum often to catch all the bird dust and other pollutants in the space.

Other irritants in the air can induce sneezing as well.

For example, smoke, candles, household cleaners and air fresheners can all be triggering for sensitive noses.

If your budgie has a sensitive nose then these things can irritate her, resulting in more sneezing.

Removing indoor irritants or keeping them away from your parakeet can help reduce sneezing and create a healthier environment for your pet.

You should also monitor your parakeet’s behavior.

Although sneezing is normal, you can pay close attention to any abnormal actions or excessive sneezing.

Staying attentive and caring for your bird will help you notice when something is out of order so you can take immediate action.

 

Can a vet help my sneezing parakeet?

Even parakeets can catch a cold.

But unlike humans, parakeets colds can’t be treated with hot tea and a few days in bed.

You will have to go to the vet to get the right medication to treat your parakeets symptoms.

Be wary if a cough accompanies your budgie’s sneeze because this is another sign of illness.

Infected eyes and runny noses also signal a more serious health problem.

All of these symptoms require veterinarian attention and should be taken seriously.

After noticing that your parakeet is sneezing more than usual you can take her to see a vet.

Find an avian specialist who is qualified to find any underlying health issues.

Your vet can determine the source of your parakeet’s sneezing and then prescribe the right treatment.

Overall, a sneeze or two shouldn’t alarm you.

Do your best to keep the bird cage and surroundings clean in order to decrease sneezing.

Finally, watch your parakeet closely if you notice any abnormal behavior or other symptoms accompanying the sneezing, and then take your bird to the vet for a diagnosis and treatment to get her feeling upbeat and healthy in no time.

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