04/09/2026
Metal Toxicity in Birds: A Hidden Danger🦜
Birds are naturally curious. They love to chew, climb, explore and investigate everything around them, but this can sometimes put them at risk of heavy metal toxicity.
Our Exotic Animal Team sees metal toxicity regularly, and it can happen when birds ingest metals such as lead or zinc.
Where can birds be exposed?
Potential sources around the home can include:
• Galvanised metal cages, wire or clips
• Metal bells, toys and chains
• Jewellery, keys or coins
• Lead-based paint or old painted surfaces
• Curtain weights and fishing sinkers
• Some cage hardware and metal fittings
• Chewed pieces of metal objects or household items
Signs can be difficult to recognise. Depending on the type and amount of metal ingested, affected birds may develop:
• Vomiting or regurgitation
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy or weakness
• Increased thirst or urination
• Diarrhoea or abnormal droppings
• Tremors or seizures
• Loss of coordination
• Changes in behaviour
Some birds may initially show very subtle signs, which is why knowing your bird's normal behaviour and eating habits is so important.
How is it diagnosed?
If metal toxicity is suspected, your veterinarian may recommend blood tests and X-rays to look for evidence of metal ingestion and assess your bird's health.
Treatment depends on the type and severity of toxicity and may involve supportive care and medication to help remove the metal from the body.
Prevention starts at home. Take a close look at your bird's environment from their perspective. If they can reach it, they can probably chew it!
Regularly inspect cages, toys, bells, clips and other accessories for wear, corrosion, peeling coatings or exposed metal, and if you think your bird may have swallowed or chewed something potentially toxic, don't wait for symptoms to appear. Contact your avian veterinarian as soon as possible.
A bird-safe environment isn't just about keeping them contained; it's about making sure the world around them is safe to explore.
Have you checked your bird's cage and toys lately?
