06/19/2025
Sending our love to Page Nicole enduring this heart break. Be sure to follow our sister page for updates, adds, and corrections to the book Parronting.
The book is required for all adopters and advised for any parrot owner. It will save you a fortune, save lives, and make everyone's lives better.
Heart Failure (CPR on pg 212; Heart disease pg 260):
Tickle, a 36 year old B&G macaw, was adopted from here last year. Last night she passed away from a heart attack. This is heart breaking, but we are consoled that Tickle had a great year of freedom and love the way she wanted. It's never enough.
Mom saw nothing special in advance. She came home and found Tickle in distress, flushed mask, and thought she was choking. Mom couldn't find any obstructions, reached out to us for help with a video.
Pictures and video are super helpful in diagnostics.
Oneta diagnosed as heart failure associated likely with fatty organs and depressed liver function related to a seed diet history. Seeds aren't necessarily bad, but it can for a caged or otherwise inactive bird it is like having a Tw***ie diet sitting on the couch for years. They need to have lots of activity to burn off all the easy energy or it builds up as fat internally on organs leading to organ failure.
Healthy patterns can help slow and even to a point reverse unhealthy patterns. Sarge came from the same home, so we were advised to apply Milk Thistle powder to her food. She's not the only one we have such concerns with, and I already do this and more for liver support. But I will be more regular about it, seasoning all the food with greater emphasis on Milk Thistle as advised. I ordered this https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BPCLP88N/
Google has this to say about signs of heart failure in a parrot:
Signs of heart failure in a parrot can be subtle and may include lethargy, increased respiratory rate and effort, difficulty breathing, and a swollen abdomen. Other potential signs include exercise intolerance, weakness, skin discoloration around the eyes, and sudden loss of balance. If you suspect heart problems, consult with an avian veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.
More detailed signs of heart failure in parrots:
Lethargy and Weakness:
A parrot with heart problems may be less active and tire easily during normal activities.
Increased Respiratory Rate and Effort:
You may notice your parrot breathing faster or more heavily than usual, sometimes with visible effort.
Difficulty Breathing:
This can manifest as shortness of breath, especially during exertion or when lying down, and may be accompanied by wheezing.
Swelling:
Fluid retention can lead to swelling in the abdomen, legs, and feet.
Skin Discoloration:
Changes in skin color around the eyes or elsewhere could indicate poor circulation or oxygenation.
Exercise Intolerance:
A parrot with heart problems may struggle with activities they previously enjoyed, such as flying or climbing.
Sudden Loss of Balance or Fainting:
In severe cases, heart problems can cause neurological symptoms like loss of balance or temporary loss of consciousness.
Coughing:
A persistent cough, potentially with pink or white mucus, can be a sign of heart failure.
Changes in Droppings:
Abnormal droppings, such as changes in color or consistency, can also be a sign of illness.
Behavioral Changes:
Lethargy can lead to a lack of interest in food, toys, or interaction with the owner.
Important Considerations:
Subtle Signs:
Many heart conditions in birds are initially subtle and can easily be overlooked, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
Right-sided vs. Left-sided Heart Failure:
Right-sided heart failure is more common in birds and can lead to fluid buildup in the abdomen and other body cavities, notes a paper published in the journal Veterinary Clinics: Exotic Animal Practice.
Need for Veterinary Diagnosis:
A thorough examination by an avian veterinarian is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Underlying Causes:
Heart disease in parrots can be caused by various factors, including diet, environment, and genetics.
