Bird Care

Knowledgeable Veterinary Care for Birds in Albuquerque

Birds are intelligent, engaging companions with medical and environmental needs that differ greatly from those of dogs and cats. At Valle Verde Animal Hospital, we provide thoughtful veterinary care for pet birds while helping their families better understand nutrition, housing, behavior, and preventative health.

Because birds often hide signs of illness, a small change at home may be more important than it first appears. Our team listens carefully to what you’ve noticed, handles your bird as gently as possible, and explains our findings and recommendations in clear, practical terms.

Preventative Care for Avian Companions

Routine veterinary exams are an important part of keeping your bird healthy. These visits allow us to establish a baseline, monitor changes over time, and discuss the many factors that can affect avian health.

Depending on your bird’s species, age, history, and needs, a wellness visit may include:

• Weight and body condition evaluation
• Examination of the eyes, ears, beak, mouth, skin, and feathers
• Heart, lung, and air sac assessment
• Evaluation of the abdomen, feet, and mobility
• Nutrition and feeding guidance
• Housing, enrichment, and socialization discussions
• Recommended laboratory or parasite testing

Signs Your Bird May Need Veterinary Attention

We may also recommend testing through our Diagnostics and Imaging services when more information is needed.

Birds instinctively conceal weakness, so illness can become advanced before symptoms appear obvious. Contact us promptly if you notice changes such as:

• Reduced appetite or difficulty eating
• Changes in droppings
• Sitting low on the perch or at the bottom of the enclosure
• Fluffed feathers or unusual sleepiness
• Changes in breathing or tail movement
• Weight loss
• Discharge from the eyes or nostrils
• Feather loss, picking, or changes in grooming
• Sudden behavior or vocalization changes
• Difficulty balancing, perching, or flying

Supporting Health Beyond the Exam Room

If your bird seems unwell or has been injured, call us at (505) 494-5000 so we can discuss the concern and confirm availability. More time-sensitive problems may require care through our Urgent Care services or referral to an emergency facility.

A bird’s environment plays a major role in their well-being. Diet, enclosure setup, temperature, lighting, air quality, social interaction, and enrichment can all affect health and behavior. Our team can help you identify practical ways to support your bird at home without making the process feel overwhelming.

Valle Verde Animal Hospital is proud to give Albuquerque bird owners a place where their companions are welcomed, understood, and treated with compassion.