Avian chlamydia (psittacosis)

Avian chlamydia, also called psittacosis, is a bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia psittaci. This bacteria affects many birds, including the elegant cockatiel. It mainly affects the respiratory and digestive tracts. It is a serious dise...

Find a veterinarian All cockatiel diseases

Definition Signs Causes Transmission Diagnosis Treatment Prevention Complications When to see a vet Prognosis FAQ Sources Affected species

What is it?

Key point

Disease to be closely monitored due to its zoonotic nature: it can be transmitted to humans and cause a sometimes severe respiratory illness.

Commonly observed signs

These signs are neither exhaustive nor specific. Only a veterinarian can establish a diagnosis.

Related signs — each one links to its page:

Reduction Loss of appetite Weight loss Runny nose Discharge from the eyes Red eyes Difficulty breathing Rapid breathing Diarrhea Ruffled feathers Fatigue Jaundice

The signs are often subtle at first, making the disease difficult to spot in cockatiels.

There is generally general depression, ruffled feathers and loss of appetite.

The bird may have discharge from the eyes or nose, red or swollen eyes, and sometimes difficulty breathing with faster breathing.

Digestive disorders are common: diarrhea, abnormal stools, progressive weight loss.

In more severe forms, a yellowish color (jaundice) may appear, a sign of liver damage.

Some birds remain carriers without showing any visible symptoms, which complicates detection.

When to consult without delay

This list does not replace veterinary advice. It gathers situations that justify a prompt consultation.

Causes and risk factors

The disease is caused by the bacteria Chlamydia psittaci, a microorganism that multiplies inside the bird's cells. It mainly infects the respiratory tract, the digestive tract and sometimes the liver and spleen.

Stress, a crowded environment, poor cage hygiene or an unbalanced diet favor the appearance of symptoms in a carrier bird.

The introduction of a new, uncontrolled bird into the home, contact with wild birds or purchase from a pet store without quarantine also increases the risk.

Young cockatiels and birds already weakened by another disease are more susceptible to severe forms.

Transmission

The bacteria is transmitted mainly by inhalation of dust contaminated by dried droppings or respiratory secretions from an infected bird. It can also be transmitted by direct contact, through nasal secretions, or orally via contaminated food or water. A carrier bird without symptoms may shed the bacteria intermittently, especially during times of stress.

Diagnosis and care

Diagnosis is the veterinarian's responsibility, based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Care is decided case by case.

The veterinarian relies on clinical signs, but the definitive diagnosis requires laboratory analyses: search for the bacteria or its genetic material by PCR on swabs or stools, and sometimes serological blood tests. A blood test can also reveal liver damage.

Treatment

Treatment is based on specific antibiotic therapy adapted to this intracellular bacteria, prescribed and monitored by a veterinarian over an extended period of time. Supportive care such as rehydration or nutritional support may be necessary depending on the condition of the bird.

Treatment depends on the cause and the animal's condition: it must be determined by a veterinarian. No self-medication.

Prevention

Quarantining any new birds for several weeks before introducing them to others is essential.

Regular cleaning of the cage, feeders and drinkers limits the accumulation of droppings and contaminating dust.

Avoiding contact with wild birds or birds of unknown origin also reduces the risk of introducing the bacteria.

A veterinary check upon purchase, particularly for birds from pet stores or markets, is recommended.

Possible complications

Without appropriate treatment, the infection can progress to serious liver damage, septicemia or the death of the bird. Birds not treated properly risk remaining chronic carriers and contaminating other animals or people.

When to see a veterinarian

The bird is down, remains prostrate or refuses to eat for more than a day.

Breathing difficulties or abnormally rapid breathing appear.

Drainage from the eyes or nose, or red eyes, are visible.

Diarrhea persists or the bird visibly loses weight.

A person in the household has flu-like symptoms after contact with the bird.

Prognosis

The prognosis is favorable if the disease is detected early and treated correctly over a sufficient period of time with veterinary monitoring. In the absence of treatment, the outcome can be serious, particularly in young birds or those already weakened.

Frequently asked questions

Can my cockatiel’s chlamydia make me sick?

Yes, it's a zoonosis. The bacteria can pass to humans through inhalation of contaminated dust and cause flu-like illness and sometimes pneumonia. You should consult a doctor if you develop symptoms after contact with a sick bird.

Can a bird without symptoms transmit the disease?

Yes. Some cockatiels are carriers without visible signs and excrete the bacteria intermittently, particularly during times of stress, which makes monitoring difficult.

How long does the treatment last?

The antibiotic treatment must be followed for an extended period of time, decided by the veterinarian, because the bacteria lodges inside the cells and requires a long treatment to be completely eliminated.

How can I protect my other birds if one is affected?

You should isolate the sick bird, carefully clean its environment and consult a veterinarian to evaluate the other birds in the household, even if they do not show symptoms.