Do pet birds need to see a vet?

Yes. Birds hide illness until they are very unwell. Register with a vet experienced in avian medicine and seek same-day care for fluffed-up posture, tail bobbing, reduced droppings or breathing with an open mouth.

What should I feed my pet bird in the UK?

Species-appropriate complete diets plus safe fresh vegetables — not bread or avocado (toxic). Seed-only diets cause deficiency disease; follow RSPCA and avian vet guidance for your species.

UK birds

Bird Health

Budgies, cockatiels and parrots — housing, diet, respiratory signs and when to see an avian vet in the UK.

What are bird health emergencies?

Open-mouth breathing, bleeding, egg binding, collapse, seizures, or sudden inability to perch are emergencies. Keep the bird warm in a ventilated carrier and contact an avian vet immediately — many practices refer to specialist clinics.

Popular birds guides

UK reference sources

We check our guides against publicly available advice from these organisations. Links are for further reading — they do not mean these bodies endorse PETHEALTH+.

Check your bird's symptoms

Frequently Asked Questions

Do pet birds need to see a vet?: Yes. Birds hide illness until they are very unwell. Register with a vet experienced in avian medicine and seek same-day care for fluffed-up posture, tail bobbing, reduced droppings or breathing with an open mouth.
What should I feed my pet bird in the UK?: Species-appropriate complete diets plus safe fresh vegetables — not bread or avocado (toxic). Seed-only diets cause deficiency disease; follow RSPCA and avian vet guidance for your species.