[calaereth]

Hi everyone! New to group. My workplace has a budgie since it's my bosses and they spend almost all their time here rather than home. She's an absolute sweetheart, but often likes men over women (I'm a woman, but slowly earning her trust). I've noticed this week that her behaviour has changed a bit and am wondering if I should be at all concerned and notify my boss? For the last couple days she has been puffing up quite a lot and shaking a bit, but she's become a lot more active. It's rather hot here right now, considering it's July, and we have a little bit of AC on but only a few degrees difference from outside really. She's not near a vent or somewhere to catch a draft, so I don't believe she's cold. I haven't noticed anything else besides these characteristics, but it would be good to get another opinion. Her appetite is good, energy great but quite a lot more than before, poops fine, it's mostly just the puffed up and shaking. Even around her favourite people. She still comes up to you to say hello and give some love nips but I'm just a bit concerned.

Anything would be of help, thank you.

 

[Cody]

Birds hide illness extremely well, usually by the time symptoms are noticeable the bird may have been ill for some time. Any change in behavior should be taken seriously as it could be an indicator that something is wrong. What is your workplace like, is there lots of activity, sounds, smells etc? I would suggest that you find a avian vet that would be able to examine the bird, to be on the safe side. When a bird is ill it can deteriorate quickly. Sorry if this sounds scary but I would be concerned for any bird that is puffed up and shaking if the space is not cold. I am assuming that the puffing up is not the same thing you see when sleeping. How old is the bird?

 

[calaereth]

Thank you for you quick response. And it's no problem, I've been pretty worried these past few days. I've never owned a bird to myself before but I've had an array of animals including rabbits which also deteriorate quickly after the first signs, so I can usually tell when something seems off. She's about 4 years old now. I'll be talking with my boss shortly about bringing her to a vet.
The workplace itself is quiet up in front where she is, and since she's next to his office it's a very quiet spot for her. The loudest thing would be when the phone rings but none are close to her.

 

[Cody]

Please be sure you locate an avian vet as they have specialized training and will notice things that others may not. Many times vets that see exotics will have an avian vet on staff. Does she ever lay eggs or can you tell if there is any swelling around the vent area? I was thinking that the shaking may indicate that she is in pain and maybe trying to pass an egg. How is her breathing, does it seem fast or labored at all?

 

[RavensGryf]

Would it be possible to post a short video with your phone? You say she’s become ‘more’ active as opposed to less, which would be more usual when one is ill. Also, if we can see, we’d be better able to tell if the puffing and slight trembling is part of normal activity, or if it’s the kind of puffing that indicates she’s not feeling well.

At any rate, anytime there is a health issue in question, or a worry or concern, it’s best to have her be seen by an avian vet. If you need help locating one, we’ll be glad to help. Good luck with the little one.