Birds that are exposed to these bacteria spread the disease in their feces. People and other birds get sick by breathing in the air that has bacteria in it from the dry bird droppings. The bacteria are too small to see in the air, but they can still make people and birds sick. People may also become sick when the birds bite them or touch their mouths with their beaks, or from touching the bird s feathers. Sick birds may also spread the disease through their runny nose and eyes.
Birds usually get sick from psittacosis.
Birds may become depressed , and they may stop eating. They may also get ruffled feathers, eye or breathing problems, and their droppings may change in color or shape. Psittacosis in birds can be treated with antibiotics. If you think your bird has any of these symptoms, take it to a veterinarian right away. Some birds can seem healthy and be carrying the disease, so it s important to have all new birds checked out by a veterinarian.