Stressed Birds Are Vulnerable To Illness

Being exposed to stressors can have a negative effect on the health and well-being of pet birds.  A ‘stressor’ creates a situation where birds can suffer from strain or tension, like overcrowding, extreme temperature or humidity (high or low), as well as the presence of potential predators.

Birds can suffer from physical and psychological stress. Physical stress can be triggered by an emergency that warrants a ‘fight or flight’ reaction’ or a continuing stress such as overcrowding inside the enclosure. In a way, stress can be beneficial because it keeps the bird on his toes, allowing him to react more capably to a perceived threat.

The effects of stress on pet birds are often more pronounced when the stressor is overwhelming. Stress is often considered an important predisposing factor to serious illness because it can lower the integrity of the animal’s immune system.

Any change in your pet’s health and/or behavior should be brought to the attention of your veterinarians Louisville, CO.