Dealing with a Shivering Parrot: What to Do?

1. Parrots Shivering Due to a Cold

Should there be a drop in temperature recently or if the environment is too cold, a shivering parrot may be suffering from a cold. It's crucial for owners to ensure proper warmth to prevent their feathered friend from catching a chill and developing a cold. Here are some steps to take:

Firstly, monitor the temperature inside the cage. Parrots prefer a cozy environment around 15 degrees Celsius. If this isn't possible, aim for at least 5 degrees Celsius to minimize the impact of cold air on their immune system and prevent them from catching a cold.

Secondly, avoid frequently moving your parrot between environments with significant temperature differences. Maintaining a stable environment can prevent them from experiencing a temperature shock that could lead to shivering.

Lastly, ensure your parrot receives adequate nutrition to boost their immune system. Foods like cooked eggs and electrolytes can help provide the necessary nutrients.

2. Sudden Startle

Parrots, like humans, can tremble in fear. Many caged parrots are quite timid, and sudden changes in the environment or loud noises can cause them to become startled, leading to involuntary shivering. If the scare is not severe, the parrot should recover within a few hours, and the shivering should subside. However, if the stress is extreme, with symptoms like diarrhea, loss of appetite, listlessness, and dazed appearance, it could be lifethreatening. It's essential to keep the environment quiet and comfortable to avoid such situations.

3. Parasite Infection

When parrots are infected with parasites, they may shake their feathers due to itching and discomfort, which can resemble shivering. Other illnesses can also cause discomfort and trembling in parrots. If you're unable to determine the cause, it's best to consult a professional veterinarian for a diagnosis.

When a parrot exhibits unexplained shivering, if the situation is not severe and the bird is still eating normally, observation is usually the first step. For more severe cases, or if you have access to veterinary care, it's advisable to seek treatment promptly.