Psittacosis in birds is a serious bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia psittaci. This illness affects birds and can be transmitted to humans, making it a zoonotic disease. Although its prevalence is moderate, psittacosis can be fatal for birds if not treated early. Transmission occurs mainly through the inhalation of contaminated particles. Extra caution is essential to protect both your bird and the humans around it.

How psittacosis is transmitted

Infected birds excrete the bacteria through:

• Droppings
• Respiratory secretions

Contamination can happen via:

• Inhaling airborne particles or aerosols
• Touching contaminated surfaces (toys, cages, food dishes)
• Accidental ingestion

Some birds are asymptomatic carriers, spreading the bacteria silently without showing signs of illness. These birds can infect other birds and contaminate their environment without being detected.

Clinical signs of psittacosis in birds

Symptoms may appear within days or after several weeks. They depend on which organs are affected:

• Respiratory signs: nasal discharge, open-mouth breathing, extended neck, wings held away from the body
• Liver and kidney signs: diarrhea, yellow or green urates, increased droppings (polyuria)
• Neurological signs: tremors, head tilting
• General signs: fluffed-up feathers, lethargy, loss of appetite, no vocalization

Diagnosis: a multi-test approach

No single test is enough to fully diagnose psittacosis. A combination of tests is needed to determine:

• Whether the bird is currently infected
• If the bird is shedding bacteria
• Which organs are affected and to what extent

Recommended tests:

• Cloacal swab (droppings)
• Choanal swab (oral cavity)
• Blood test (antibodies)
• Biochemistry panel (organ function)
• X-rays (internal damage or inflammation)

Treatment: strict and long-term

Treatment requires:

• Oral antibiotics for around 45 days
• If doxycycline is used, calcium must be restricted (remove cuttlebone, mineral blocks), as it can reduce the drug’s effectiveness

Strict compliance with the treatment duration is critical for success.

Zoonotic risk: a danger to humans

Psittacosis is a zoonosis and can infect humans, often appearing as:

• Severe flu-like symptoms that don’t improve with regular antibiotics
• Conjunctivitis in some cases

If symptoms persist and you live with a bird, inform your doctor—even if your bird seems healthy.

Questions? We’re here to help

If you have concerns about your bird or want to learn more about psittacosis, contact us today. Our veterinary team is here to support you and ensure the well-being of both your bird and your household.