Parakeets and Coccidiosis

Coccidiosis is an illness named after the protozoan parasite which causes it, named Eimeria. Coccidiosis can affect not only parakeets but other birds, cats, dogs, people, cows, goats, you name it. Some bird owners theorize that all parakeets actually have a small amount of Eimeria in them - and that it is only the birds that are poorly taken care of that get symptoms and sick because of it. It's like the "common cold". Most of us are exposed regularly to this, but only those of us who are weak or temporarily immune-impaired that tend to get sick.

In parakeets, coccidiosis is usually noticed by lethargic behavior and very wet, runny droppings. Sometimes there is a bit of blood in the droppings as well. Because the droppings are so moist, you might also note that the feathers around your parakeet's rear end look "dirty".

Note that wet droppings can also be caused by a juicy diet such as lots of lettuce or tomatoes. So try putting your parakeet just on seeds for a few days and see if the problem continues.

If it does, you need to take your pet to a vet immediately. The vet will need a microscrope to know for sure what is going on, and will give you the medicine to treat it.

NOTE: I AM NOT A VET! If you have ANY concern about your parakeet's health and safety, no 'far off person' on the web will be able to accurately diagnose the issue. You need to bring your keet to a real, live vet to see the symptoms first hand and take appropriate action.

Parakeet Medical and Safety Information