Parakeet Seizure Aftercare

Parakeets are small-to-medium-sized parrots commonly kept as pets. Like many birds, parakeets can experience seizures that require changes in the bird's day-to-day life. Seizures can be caused by a variety of issues, some short term, some permanent. If you witness your parakeet experiencing a seizure it is important to remain calm so you don't make the situation worse. Once the parakeet is done convulsing aftercare should begin immediately.

  1. Veterinarian Visit

    • If you haven't already done so take the parakeet to the veterinarian. Transport the bird in a dark and quiet box. There may be an infectious disease that caused the seizure, and that will need to be investigated by a professional. Diseases such as West Nile Virus, Aspergillosis and Proventricular Dilation Disease (PDD), also known as Macaw Wasting Disease, can cause seizures in many birds, including parakeets. Seizures can also be caused by liver or metabolic disease, overheating and brain tumors.

    Remove Stress

    • Creating a stress-free environment for a parakeet that has suffered a seizure can help ensure the bird does not experience another one. Move the bird's cage to an area of the home that has less traffic and is safe from other household pets, especially cats. Make sure you continue to give the parakeet attention on a regular basis, but use a soft, calming voice when speaking to the bird.

    Support And Care

    • Supply your parakeet with plenty of fluids and nutritional supplements. Provide the bird with any and all veterinarian-suggested antibiotics and anticonvulsants and closely follow any prescribed recovery plan. If an underlying issue is found, the veterinarian will establish a plan of attack for issues such as lead poisoning or anemia.

    Change Cages

    • For parakeets that continue to convulse, a smaller cage should be used so that the bird will have a lesser chance of flying around and hurting itself mid-convulsion. Padding the bottom of the cage will also help if the bird falls.

    Clean Environment

    • Remove any environmental factors that could have caused a seizure such as cigarette smoke, pesticides, heavy metals like zinc or lead or plants and foods that are toxic to birds, which include daffodils or avocados. Consult with your veterinarian for a complete list of toxic plants and foods.