When an owner notices changes in the bird’s appetite, thirst, droppings, activity, vocalizations, grooming behaviors and general attitude, time is of the essence. Because of their relatively fast metabolism and the tendency to hold off showing illness until they absolutely are so ill they can’t feign health any longer, owners need to seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.

Medical problems in companion birds can often be prioritized by species. This may help veterinarians develop a list of differential diagnoses more quickly by incorporating known species’ likelihood of a particular disease in addition to clinical signs, history, diet and husbandry information.

**For the full article, pick up the 2008 issue of Birds USA or click here to buy the issue.**