If your bird gets hurt, the first 15 minutes matter more than most owners realize. The goal is not to “treat everything” at home. The goal is to stabilize safely and get expert help fast.
Before anything else, keep a proper bird first aid kit in one place, and know which avian vet to call before an emergency happens.
Step 1: Make the area safe (0–2 minutes)
- Turn off fans, close doors/windows, and remove other pets from the room.
- Lower noise and lights to reduce panic.
- Use a clean towel to gently secure your bird only if needed.
Do not squeeze the chest. Birds need chest movement to breathe.
Step 2: Quick injury check (2–5 minutes)
- Is there active bleeding?
- Is breathing open-mouth, noisy, or labored?
- Can the bird stand and grip normally?
- Any obvious wing droop, fracture angle, or head trauma?
Take a 20–30 second video if safe. This can help your avian vet triage faster by phone.
Step 3: Stabilize, don’t improvise (5–10 minutes)
For bleeding: Use sterile gauze and gentle direct pressure for several minutes. Avoid random powders or household chemicals.
For possible shock: Keep the bird warm, dark, and quiet in a small carrier. Warmth supports circulation while you contact the clinic.
For breathing distress: Minimize handling. Stress and restraint can make breathing worse.
Step 4: Call an avian vet immediately (10–12 minutes)
Give clear facts: species, weight (if known), what happened, when it happened, and current signs. Ask directly whether to come in now. For most trauma cases, the answer is yes.
Step 5: Transport correctly (12–15 minutes)
- Use a secure small carrier lined with a towel.
- Keep temperature stable and the ride quiet.
- Do not offer food/water if your bird is unstable or breathing hard.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting “to see if it improves” after a serious incident.
- Giving human pain meds or random antibiotics.
- Over-handling a bird that is already stressed or dyspneic.
- Using online advice instead of immediate avian triage.
Build your emergency plan today
Emergency outcomes improve when your plan is ready before panic starts. Keep your kit stocked, post your avian vet number, and review your home setup regularly to reduce preventable injuries.