Last Updated on July 31, 2022 by Guillermina
Can birds throw up? This short educational article will teach you everything you need to know about this somewhat unusual but so common bird practice.
We believe that you, like most other pet owners, would not like anything bad to happen to your pet. There is nothing worse than a situation where your pet is suffering and you can’t or don’t know how to help him. Therefore, it is good to research in advance and inquire about various problems in order to be up to date and react properly if you ever find yourself in an unexpected situation.
One of the most interesting questions we heard recently is: can birds throw up? We were so intrigued that we simply had to write this short, informative article. If you are interested in the answer to this, but also many other questions related to birds, stay with us and find out.
Table of Contents
What Is Regurgitation?
Before you find out the answer to the question “can birds throw up”, let us tell you a little more about the process that is often confused with this term.
Regurgitation is a completely natural condition in birds and is mainly related to parenthood. Wondering how this is possible and what it means at all? It is very simple, during this frequent process, the bird waves its head and stretches its neck, and the food is not actually digested at all. We must not forget to note that regurgitating a bird will not show any signs of illness or distress.
This process is easiest to observe in the nest. Namely, after hatching, baby birds are completely dependent on their parents. Did you know that when a female lays eggs, the male will overeat many times, only to return to the nest later and purge to feed his mate?
Furthermore, regurgitation is a way for birds to show each other that they are “interested”, or a way to let their favorite people and toys know they love them.
Now that you have learned the meaning of this frequent natural process, it is time to give you the right answer to the question “can birds throw up”.
What Is Vomiting?
Vomiting is a completely natural phenomenon in which part of the digested or almost digested contents return from the stomach and spit out.
Can Birds Throw Up?
Keep in mind that the bird may not be truly regurgitating every time it throws up. So, for all those who are wondering “can birds throw up”, the answer is yes. It is quite difficult to distinguish regurgitation from vomiting, but keep in mind that this is extremely important. How to do it? – Very simple.
Regurgitation is not a stressful or violent process for a bird. Moreover, it looks quite painless. Vomiting on the other hand is fairly easy to spot and comes very quickly, the bird usually shakes its head while slinging the partially digested food all over. If you notice traces of vomiting on the cage, or that the feathers on your bird’s head are stuck together or caked with food, it is very likely that your pet has struggled with vomiting.
Among the most common symptoms of vomiting in birds are the following:
- Blood in the stool
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Ruffled appearance
- Seizure
- Tucking the head under the wing
- Twitching
Now that you know the right answer to the question “can birds throw up”, keep reading to learn more about the causes of this common natural phenomenon.
The best way to determine the exact cause of vomiting is to go to the vet, here are some of the possible causes:
- Bacterial infection
- Parasites
- Poisoning/toxins
- Yeast infection
- Virus
- Liver or kidney disease
- Trauma
- Allergies
- Cancer
The most common of all is the behavioral, i.e. that your pet vomits because he is unhappy with the cage, noise, or people.
Diagnosis & Best Treatment
As we have already mentioned, it is not so easy for the owners or the veterinarian to find out the cause. What is absolutely certain is that your bird needs to be physically examined, which actually includes a blood test as well as a serum biochemical panel. In addition, the most common test methods include X-ray or other imaging as well as endoscopy.
If you notice any sign that makes you think your bird could be vomiting, the best thing you can do is contact a veterinarian who will include some of the following:
- Change of diet,
- Different drugs suitable for a specific type of disease,
- Surgery,
- Cleaning and removal of all potential irritants.
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To Conclude: Can Birds Throw Up?
Do you agree with us that pet vomiting is one of the most unpleasant experiences an owner can encounter? These experiences can be quite scary, especially for young, inexperienced owners.
We know cats and dogs can, but can birds throw up? The answer is yes. Don’t panic, as this is completely natural behavior and can neither be predicted nor prevented. The most important thing is to take care of your pet and in case of sudden, disturbing vomiting, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Did you know the correct answer to the question “can birds throw up” before reading this article? Let us know in the comments.
Read more: Top 11 Most Common Bird Omens And Superstitions
FAQ’s
Do Birds Vomit When Scared?
Yes, it is very possible that birds vomit when they are scared, in most cases it will be some kind of orange liquid.
Can A Parakeet Throw Up?
It may seem like your parakeet is vomiting, but it may or may not be vomiting, it may be regurgitation. Pay attention, if it is violent and stressful it is very likely he is ill.
Why Is My Bird Throwing Up Seeds?
Your bird may vomit seeds because it is trying to feed its partner (female) or newly hatched babies.
Why Is My Bird Throwing His Food?
Vomiting is also a way for birds to show each other that they are "interested", or a way to let their favorite people and toys know they love them.
