If you own a bird, it’s important to have it examined regularly by a skilled avian veterinarian. The vet will check your bird for signs of injury and disease and recommend treatment if necessary. The earlier you catch an illness, the easier it is to address. While most birds should get a wellness exam once a year, older ones and those showing signs of a disease may require more frequent tests.

Questions & Observations

During the initial part of a wellness exam, an avian veterinarian will ask you several questions about your bird. They may want to know its age and details about its cage, diet, and any medications. The vet may also ask if your pet has had any behavioral changes or medical problems.

Next, the avian veterinarian will observe your bird in its cage. They will pay attention to how it behaves and look for signs of health problems. If the bird keeps its eyes closed, has difficulty breathing, or appears weak, it’s likely sick.

Physical Exam & Diagnostic Tests

The veterinarian will take the bird out of the cage to give it a physical exam; if it appears scared or distressed, they may restrain it to prevent injuries. The vet will weigh your pet on a digital gram scale and examine it from head to toe, evaluating its feathers, eyes, ears, nares, beak and oral cavity. They will also check the heart and lungs with a stethoscope.

If the veterinarian believes your bird is at risk of disease due to its age, medical history, or any findings in the exam, they may recommend one or more diagnostic tests, such as blood work, fecal diagnostics, or x-rays.

If your bird is overdue for an annual exam, contact an avian veterinarian at Fairport Animal Hospital in New York. The team serves birds, dogs, cats, and exotic animals and treats every pet with care and respect. The clinic offers state-of-the-art diagnostics, including urine tests, digital radiology, and ultrasonic imaging. The vets also review the pets’ special needs at home. To schedule an appointment, call (585) 388-1070 today, or visit the website for more information about how they can assist.