A sick bird benefits from being placed in a very warm area (around 22-25 degrees Celsius) that is quiet and dark.  Often the initial treatment can help them to cope with better examination.  If there is a respiratory problem there may be an occasional yawn and a “tail bob.”

They may eat less and the droppings may look different to normal.  Breathing problems can be due to foreign bodies, infections of various kinds, certain parasites, or exposure to toxic fumes and sprays inside the house.

Obesity can be a common problem in cages birds, especially if they are on a high fat diet consisting of a lot if treat foods, or fatty seeds such as sunflower seeds and have restricted exercise.  These birds can also be prone to fatty tumors which, although not life-threatening, can press on other organs or affect the ability to perch or fly

Endoparasites or intestinal worms, are mainly a problem in aviary birds and not of a major concern in a single caged bird.

The most common poisonings are usually from heavy metals such as lead, which is found in some paints so care must be taken with the choice of paints for nest boxes and aviaries.

Also zinc from galvanised wire can be dangerous so scrub wire (old or new) with a diluted vinegar solution and rinse well.

These are a few of the more common problems that may affect cages birds but, as a rule, birds are affectionate, fun loving, delightful and trouble free pets.