Taking care of your pet bird's health is very important, and a veterinarian plays a big role in that. Birds are prey animals, which means they are used to hiding their sickness because they want to avoid being seen as weak. This makes it tough for owners to notice when something is wrong. If you see any changes in how your bird acts or looks, it’s crucial to take it to a vet right away. Vets also help with grooming and making sure your bird is properly identified.
If you are a new bird owner, try to find a veterinarian who is specially trained to treat birds. You can check for an ABVP (American Board of Veterinary Practitioners) board-certified avian vet near you. These vets have extra training about birds and know what to do to keep them healthy. You might ask friends, neighbors, pet stores, or local animal shelters for recommendations. The ABVP website has a tool to help you find a certified avian vet nearby, and you can also check the Association of Avian Veterinarians website.
When you get a new bird, it’s best to have it checked by a vet before bringing it home. Newly bought birds or ones that have been around other birds at pet stores or shows might carry diseases that can spread. It's also a good idea to take your bird for a checkup every year. Whenever you take your bird to the vet, try to bring it in its own cage. The way the cage is set up can help the vet see any problems your bird might have. The vet will likely ask you questions about your bird's health, what it eats, and where it lives, including whether it has been around other birds.
Sometimes, blood tests during checkups can find diseases before your bird shows serious signs, and early treatment is usually more successful. There are a few vaccines for birds, but most pet birds don’t get vaccinated regularly. If you have questions about vaccines, make sure to ask your vet.
