Signs Your Budgie is Sick

Learn the subtle signs that might indicate your budgie is unwell, and how to take action quickly to prevent serious health issues. 

Budgies are prey animals, which means they’re really good at hiding when they’re unwell. This instinct protects them in the wild — but at home, it can make it hard to notice a health problem until it’s serious.

Learning to spot the early signs of illness could save your budgie’s life.

🛑 Top Signs Your Budgie Might Be Sick

Even one of these signs could mean something is wrong:

🪶 Appearance:

• Fluffed up feathers all day (not just when resting)

• Dull, messy, or oily-looking feathers

• Crusty or swollen nostrils

• Watery or sunken eyes

• Overgrown or flaky beak

• Swollen belly or vent area

• Droopy wings or tail

🐦 Behavior:

• Sitting still, quiet, or at the bottom of the cage

• Less active or playful than usual

• Not chirping or vocalizing

• Hiding in corners

• Falling off perches or unsteady balance

• Excessive sleeping during the day

🍽️ Eating & Drinking:

• Not eating or drinking at all

• Picking at food but not swallowing

• Weight loss or visible breastbone

• Drinking a lot more (or less) than normal

💩 Droppings:

• Runny, watery, or discolored poop

• Stuck droppings around the vent

• Changes in size, color, or smell

🟡 Dropping changes are one of the first signs of illness — check daily!

🫁 Breathing:

• Open-mouth breathing or panting

• Tail bobbing up and down with each breath

• Sneezing, wheezing, or clicking noises

• Coughing or head shaking

🧡 What To Do If You Notice These Signs

1. Move your budgie to a warm, quiet spot

2. Keep their environment stress-free

3. Call or visit an avian vet as soon as possible

4. Don’t try to treat serious symptoms at home without proper guidance

5. Keep a record of any changes (food, droppings, behavior)

✅ Healthy Budgie Checklist (For Comparison)

• Bright, clear eyes

• Smooth, clean feathers

• Alert, active, and vocal

• Normal eating and drinking

• Clean vent with regular droppings

• Balanced posture and steady movement

📅 Tip: Check Your Budgie Daily

A quick look at their food, water, droppings, and behavior every day helps you catch problems early, when they’re easiest to treat.