Bird Hypothermia (Low Body Temperature)
A bird’s normal body temperature is between 40°C (104°F) and 42°C (108°F).- Many species of birds are born featherless, such as members of the parrot family. Featherless nestlings are more susceptible to hypothermia, especially if they are orphaned.
- Debilitated birds are susceptible to hypothermia.
Signs
- An adult bird fluffs up the feathers.
- Often the bird is on the bottom of the cage.
- Weakness.
- Body (cloacae) temperature of 38°C (100°F) or less.
Treatment
- Slow, gentle warming. Take care not to warm the bird too rapidly as this can lead to shock and death.
- Place the bird on a hot water bottle adequately covered to prevent burning. Alternatively, place the bird near an electric heater, a 60 watt incandescent light bulb or on an electric heating pad.
Caution
- Dry heat can cause dehydration. Increase the humidity by placing a shallow bowl of water in the cage or between the heat source and the bird.
- Always check the intensity of the heat and the period of time the bird should be exposed to it, knowing that you only want to warm the bird.
- When a bird is sufficiently warm, the feathers will be smooth and unruffled and the bird will be alert and active. If necessary, the body (cloacal) temperature cane checked.