Cockatiel regurgitating and vomiting clear liquid

[RAVd2]

Hello, I'm here because my 7yr old cockatiel had similar symptoms and we rushed her to a ER. She was weak, keepjng her beak open, 1 eye open (other partially closed). But still responding to my touch. As soon as the nurses took her in, they called back in 3mins saying she went into cardiac distress. I can't believe she's gone so soon and want to wake up tomorrow with this whole thing a bad dream. I still want to know what happened with her. Any ideas on what could've lead to her collapsing and gone so auddenly? I'm beating myself up as to whether I should've taken her to the ER although I know I couldn't have lived knowing she's suffering. Thanks!

 

[Scott]

I am so sorry, my deepest condolences for the loss of your cockatiel. Birds are hard-wired to hide symptoms of illness as defense mechanism. By the time you notice a problem, it has probably existed for some period and recovery may not be possible. There are many reasons for regurgitation including infections of various types, parasites, etc. If the vet is avian certified or highly skilled, you might ask for a necropsy. (autopsy) Sometimes the cause(s) will be very apparent, often tissue samples can be sent to a lab for evaluation.

May you be comforted by her bright memories.

 

[wrench13]

You have my deepest sympathy Rav. Sometimes our birds are with us for so short a time, they are really fragile creatures when it comes to illness, it so so important to get Avain Vet care as soon as you notice anything out of the ordinary, because by that time it can already be serious. I too lost a beloved parrot, my little Maxie; he went so quickly, less than a day. Take the time to heal and reflect on the good things and times with your little guy. I am super paranoid now, and Salty goes to the vet ASAP now at the slightest hiccup.

 

[Laurasea]

I'm so sorry for your loss. As mentioned, birds evolved to hide illness from predators who would target them, and from the flock who would kick them out to keep the test of the members healthy. Its not a choice its encoded into them. So we don't know how long they have bern sick, usually they only show it when things are very very serious.

Monitoring weight, is one of only ways to try and pick up issues. Its not perfect nor will checking weights catch all health issues. It just mentioned it because of how birds hide being ill, and this is one of our only tools.

As you described, your bird was in critical condition, you did right to try and get emergency care.

You rescued this girl and helped her. With you her life was so much better. Her poor start in life might have had long term effects on her health

" Vomiting in Birds

Rated as serious

It is important for bird owners to understand the difference between vomiting and regurgitation. . Unlike regurgitation when the food comes up intact, vomited food is digested or almost-digested, and will be expelled in some liquid form. The bird will forcefully shake its head from side to side before it spits out the liquid. The force of the vomiting may send the liquid to all parts of the cage.

Causes of Vomiting in Birds

Bacterial infection – may be caused by spoiled food or old water
Parasites – worms, hexamita
Poisoning/toxins – such as plants, toys with lead or zinc
Intestinal or esophageal obstruction (blockage)
Yeast infection - Candida

Virus
Liver or kidney disease
Medication side-effects
Cancer in the GI system
Diabetes
Motion sickness
New diet
Fungus
Trauma
Allergies
Behavioral/unhappy with cage/noise/people "