new bird owner

[moss]

so I recently got a cinnamon green cheek and he is the sweetest thing ever and happens to be really vocal. however, I have noticed that lately when he is sleeping on my shoulder he sometimes makes a small wheezing sound. I'm not sure if this is normal or if he's talking to himself in his sleep, and I do know that birds are really good at masking their illnesses. he's going to get a checkup in December for wing+nail clipping so should I ask them for medication if this really is a respiratory infection? (his beak is okay, it isn't inflamed, his poops are good and are the right color, and his cloaca is clean, and he doesn't try to eat his feathers or tear at them)

 

[foxgloveparrot]

Take a bird to the vet the moment you notice anything unusual. I wouldn't wait until December, either. Get a vet visit as soon as you can.

 

[Scott]

Welcome to you and your cinnamon green cheek! Quite correct questioning whether the noise is artifact of infection or innocent vocalization. A skilled avian vet can listen to breathing and determine potential illness, assisted by lab tests such as blood panel, throat or fecal culture. Once an offending organism is detected, appropriate antibiotic prescribed for best effect. Some vets may take generalized view and offer broad spectrum meds and follow up with testing if needed.

 

[LaManuka]

A very warm welcome to you and your new little GCC! Don't forget to tell us your little one's name btw, will you?

I too would advocate a visit to the vet as I generally do for any new flock member. Wellness checks early on with a certified avian vet (not a dog and cat vet) will help to establish a baseline of health and can help to nip any nasties in the bud before they get a chance to take hold and become more serious. As you have mentioned, birds are VERY good as masking signs of illness, sometimes they are a little too good at it, so a check by a qualified professional is important early on if you have any health concerns at all. Annual health checks are also important and for much the same reasons. Understanding that there may be limitations on availability in your part of the world, the link below may help you to find an avian vet if you are not already acquainted with one...

https://www.aav.org/search/custom.asp?id=1803

Wishing all the very best for a clean bill of health for your newest flock member!

 

[Flboy]

Welcome to you. Absolutely, follow your concerns, but yes, they do make all kinds of sleeping noises!