ABSTRACT
Unlike dogs and cats, birds are animals that are not evolutionarily adapted to cohabitation with humans. In most cases, the pet birds are genetically the same as their wild family members. As a result, they also show the same innate behavior and traits, one of which is that they instinctively try to hide signs of disease. In nature, this prevents attracting the attention of predators. Unfortunately, in captivity, this same instinctive behavior of hiding symptoms can lead to the situation where physical problems are only noticed by bird owners in an advanced stage of disease. Even with serious illnesses, symptoms can initially be masked and unnoticed. Signs of illness in birds include abnormalities in breathing, skin, behavior, appetite, droppings, feathers, posture, coordination, swellings, nausea, eyes, ears, nose, vent and body weight. Any changes may be considered relevant. As soon as signs of disease are evident, there is every reason to consult an avian veterinarian.
