Determining the Cause of Dyspnea in Birds

Jennifer Graham, DVM, DABVP (Avian/Exotic Companion Mammal), associate professor of zoological animal medicine at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, says that when a bird presents with dyspnea there are multiple different diagnostics that a veterinarian may need to do.

Initially, she says, radiographs can be helpful. However, if a bird is presenting with signs that are more consistent with upper respiratory disease, flushes or cultures may be necessary.