Why Do Parrots Sneeze?

Parrots have very sensitive respiratory systems and like humans, sneeze when something "gets up their nose" or cere, in their case!

There are many different reasons why your bird may sneeze and I will list some of the more common ones below along with possible remedies.

Artificial fragrances:

Air fresheners are very dangerous to birds due to their sensitivity. These should be avoided at all costs. Scented candles can also cause respiratory problems and sneezing. Instead, try to fragrance your home with some fresh flowers, mint leaves or a small dab of essential oils on a cotton pad behind a radiator. I personally make my own "freshener" by putting fragrant flower petals such as rose and mint leaves into some distilled water and spraying it on my curtains.*WARNING* May attract parrot to curtains LOL

Furry pet hair:

Just like humans, birds can find pet hair uncomfortable and if it reaches high levels then the sneezing will commence! Vacuum as often as you can.

A change in the season:

Wet to dry, dry to wet....your birds nostrils could be affected by either! At the turn of the season it is quite normal to find your bird with a nail up it's nostril itching away! If the weather is warm and the air is dry, try taking him into the bathroom with you while you bath or shower to give him some humidity. Regular baths will help also. The same is true for the reverse and a dehumidifier can work wonders!

Dust:

Again, dust will get right up your birds cere if he is sensitive! Birds create their own dust also, especially birds such as the African Grey. When your bird moults, the sheaths that contain his new feathers will be disintegrating and causing dust continuously. Vacuum and dust as often as you can, air your home and quickly wipe over your birds cage daily with a damp cloth to help alleviate this. Air purifiers can be bought to help filter the air.

As I have said, there are many causes for sneezing and only you can be observant in your home to get to the source!

If there is nothing obvious and your bird is fluffed up, losing balance, has unusual droppings, nasal discharge or isn't eating or drinking, then you must get him to an avian vet immediately.

It is worth remembering that we all sneeze and as long as your bird is perfectly normal in every other way, then this should pass as quickly as it came on! It is also normal to find your bird releasing a small amount of CLEAR fluid from time to time during a sneeze is nothing to worry about either!

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Parrots As Pets for Everyone

Parrots as pets can be a delight for almost anyone. If you don't mind a pet that requires loads and loads of attention, as much as a child, in fact, a parrot might be just the right pet for you. There are many varieties to choose from, and you are likely to find one that will fit well into your family. From small budgerigar parakeets to giant Macaws, and everything in between. You can choose from love birds, cockatoos, cockatiels, and African Greys. There is a special kind of parrot for everyone.

A major thing to consider before you decide to buy a parrot is where you will buy it from. Pet stores are most people's first thought, but a private breeder is also a good choice. Make sure your prospective bird was raised in captivity since it is harmful and illegal to buy a trapped bird. You can get parrots that are parent raised or hand raised. A hand raised bird will be faster and easier to tame. Of course, ideally you should buy a young bird, unless you are doing a rescue and are already familiar with the behaviors of parrots.

If you are searching for a special parrot suited to a young child, then a budgie would be the best choice. Small, easily tamed, and gentle, they come in beautiful colors, and like their bigger cousins, can also learn to talk. They don't require the huge amount of attention that the bigger parrots do, either.

The next size up, the cockatiel, also makes a gentle pet for older children. Requiring a bit more time and care, you can get these for children who are capable of being a little bit more involved in the pet care process.

Love birds are beautiful and their color variety doesn't just stop with the green and peach-faced. You can get them in yellow, too. If you buy a pair, though, don't expect the individuals to be as devoted to you as they are to each other. Most parrots love having a mate and they will always prefer the mate to you.

The larger parrots require much more time and commitment than the three just mentioned. They are also capable of inflicting much more harm because they have huge, sharp beaks and powerful talons. These larger birds are best left to adults who have lots and lots of time to spend with the bird and who are willing to devote a whole lifetime to the animal's care. Larger parrots can live up to 80 years.

Parrots as pets can be wonderful, but be sure to take the time to pick the best one for you.

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