Pneumonia / Severe Respiratory Infection
⚠️EmergencyLower respiratory infection with tail bobbing, wheezing, and labored breathing.
This tool provides general information only and is NOT a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult a qualified avian veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Disease hero image pending upload
disease_guide / pneumonia / heroEmergency Warning
This is an emergency condition. If your bird shows these symptoms, seek veterinary care immediately and begin basic supportive treatment.
Key Symptoms
Required Symptoms (must be present)
- *Tail Bobbing— The tail moves up and down with each breath at rest, suggesting increased work of breathing.
Associated Symptoms
- Wheezing / Clicking Sounds
- Coughing
- Open Mouth Breathing
- Colored Nasal Discharge
- Lethargy / Sleepiness
- Fluffed Up Feathers
- Loss of Appetite
- Sitting on Cage Floor
Droppings Characteristics
bright_green
Treatment Protocol
URGENT: Start antibiotics immediately. Keep warm. May need nebulization therapy.
Recommended Medications
First-line for respiratory infections
Dosage: 2ml per quart of drinking water (10% solution)
Duration: 5-7 days
Alternative or add if Chlamydia suspected
Dosage: 25-50mg/kg body weight, orally twice daily
Duration: 7-45 days (varies by condition, chlamydia requires 45 days)
For inflammation and pain (Rx in US)
Dosage: 1.6mg/kg body weight, orally twice daily
Duration: 3-5 days (short-term pain relief)
Dosage: Dilute per product instructions in drinking water
Duration: 3-5 days (during illness/dehydration)
Dosage: Per product instructions, typically once daily
Duration: 7-14 days (during and after antibiotic treatment)
Home Care
- +Keep bird warm at 32-34°C — CRITICAL
- +Nebulization with saline or prescribed medication if available
- +Syringe feed if bird is not eating
- +Keep bird calm, minimize handling
- +Monitor breathing rate closely
When to See a Vet
Immediately if possible. Open-mouth breathing is an emergency.
Related Care Guides
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