Budgie Makes a Clicking Noise When Breathing

You should not be able to hear a pronounced sound when your budgie is breathing.

Noticing any changes or hearing new, strange sounds can be a cause for concern.

Budgies and other birds are prone to respiratory issues, so it is imperative to pay attention to their well-being.

If you notice that your budgie is making a clicking noise, it is likely a sign of a respiratory bacterial infection, and it should be treated immediately.

Here’s what you’re going to discover in this article

  • Why your budgie is clicking when breathing?
  • Why your budgie is making a weird noise
  • What a choking budgie sounds like
  • What you should do if your budgie is choking

Very important things is going to be talked about so have a read!

Sound good?

Let’s get started

Why Is My Budgie Clicking When Breathing? (Possible Reasons) 

If you hear your budgie clicking when it breathes, then you should be prepared to take it to the vet as soon as possible.

This sound is generally associated with respiratory illnesses in birds.

Respiratory illnesses can be caused by toxins like cigarettes or chemicals.

But the main causes of respiratory illness are bacterial infections.

Some common infections include:

  • Air sac mite infection – these are parasites that will invade the entire respiratory system of a bird. In severe cases, the bird will have difficulty breathing.
  • Bird flu – famous for its spread to humans, bird flu can range in intensity. If you notice symptoms of bird flu (lack of appetite, coughing, and diarrhea), take your bird to the vet immediately.
  • Aspergillosis: a fungal infection that can affect birds in captivity, It can affect the air sacs as well as the sinuses. 

Why Is My Budgie Making a Weird Noise?

Budgies can make all sorts of interesting noises.

They can actually talk just like parrots, which most people are not aware of.

They will make all sorts of different sounds, some of which will be mocking the sounds they hear, and others which will be instinctual sounds like squawking, and beak grinding.

Budgies mimic the sounds their owners make and even copy words and phrases or sing songs you play them.

Budgies will also make some strange sounds at times.

If you hear your feathered friend make a noise that almost sounds like a scream, make sure to check your bird is alright.

A loud, screaming noise usually is a cry for help or a sign of distress.

They are also easily startled, so the culprit could be that they are just scared.

If a budgie is feeling threatened, it may make a sort of hissing noise.

This noise can mean “back off!” or “leave me alone” if they need some space.

What Does a Choking Budgie Sound Like?

Unlike humans and other animals, birds do not easily choke.

Budgies generally eat their food whole, and their system is designed to not choke on things they eat.

That being said, it is always a possibility for them to bite off more than they can chew, and they may choke.

Usually, they will break up their food into manageable sizes, but if they accidentally swallow it before it is broken up correctly, they may be in danger.

So it is important to recognize the warning signs of a choking budgie. 

If something is blocking your budgie’s windpipe, it may show some of the following signals:

  • Gasping for breath
  • Coughing 
  • Shaking its head up and down
  • Frantically flapping its wings

If you notice any of these signs then what should you do?

Let’s find out

What To Do If Your Budgie Is Choking?

If your budgie shows signs of choking or if it seems there is something partially blocking its windpipe, you must assist it ASAP to avoid serious injury or death.

The best way to unblock a budgie’s windpipe if it is choking on food or plastic is to place the budgie upside down.

If this does not work, then take them to the vet immediately as there is not much more you can do for a bird choking on solid objects.

If your bird is choking on water, you will not need to do anything as they will generally vomit and expel the liquid on their own.

Wrapping Up 

Budgies are funny little creatures that will make all sorts of different noises.

However, if you notice anything out of the ordinary, it is important to act immediately.

Check that your bird is not ill, or choking on something.

Birds will make clicking noises if they have an issue with their respiratory system.

If something seems to be seriously wrong with your budgie, you should always take it to the vet.

Don’t risk waiting too long!

Disclaimer – The information on this article is for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice from your Vet with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition to your budgie 

We at birdcageshere.com write about bird health and diet however it should not be taken as medical advice. For advice on your bird you need to seek out an avian vet. The information you find on birdcageshere.com is for educational purposes only. At birdcageshere.com we are not liable for any information that you may find on here. Birdcageshere is NOT a substitute for professional medical advice about your bird.