Psittacosis (Chlamydiosis) in Birds: Symptoms and Human Transmission Risk

What Is Psittacosis?

Psittacosis (Chlamydiosis) is an infection caused by Chlamydophila psittaci, an obligate intracellular bacterium. It affects many bird species, particularly parrots (psittacines), doves, and pigeons. The bacteria are shed in respiratory secretions and droppings and can be inhaled by birds and humans. In humans, it causes an atypical pneumonia-like illness. Birds can carry the organism without showing obvious illness, then shed it during stress. Psittacosis is a notifiable disease in many countries and requires reporting to public health authorities.

Signs in Birds

Respiratory signs: nasal discharge, tail bobbing, abnormal breathing sounds
Green or yellow-green colored droppings (bile pigment in urine/urates)
Lethargy and fluffed feathers
Weight loss and reduced appetite
Eye discharge or conjunctivitis
Many birds show no symptoms (asymptomatic carriers)

First 3 Steps to Take at Home

Practice strict hygiene immediately: If psittacosis is suspected, wear a mask when cleaning cages, wash hands thoroughly after any bird handling, and avoid cleaning cages in living areas. The organism spreads through dried droppings that become airborne dust.
Isolate the bird from other birds: Psittacosis spreads readily between birds through respiratory secretions and droppings. Separate any potentially infected bird immediately.
Notify household members: Anyone in the household who has had close contact with the bird and develops flu-like symptoms should mention their bird contact to their doctor. Psittacosis in humans is treatable with doxycycline but can be severe in older adults or immunocompromised individuals.

When to Go to the Vet Immediately

Any respiratory symptoms in a bird alongside green droppings
Newly acquired bird from a flock or group source (pet store, breeder) showing any illness signs
Bird that has been in contact with a bird confirmed to have Psittacosis

Follow-Up Care Checklist

Treatment is doxycycline, typically for 45 days — a long course is required to eliminate the organism
All in-contact birds must be tested and treated
Deep clean and disinfect the entire bird area with disinfectants effective against Chlamydia
Notify your own doctor if you have respiratory symptoms after bird handling

Track Treatment Compliance with TailRounds

Log daily medication administration, droppings color, and respiratory symptoms in the TailRounds Daily Log. The 45-day treatment course requires strict adherence.

Book a Vet Appointment

Suspected Psittacosis requires specific PCR testing and treatment. Book at Happy Paws immediately for diagnostic workup and treatment initiation.

Summary for Your Clinic Visit

Tell your vet the bird's species, where it was acquired, whether it has been in contact with other birds, the dropping color, respiratory symptoms, and whether any household members have developed respiratory illness.