How to Tell Parrot Fluffing from Normal Puffing

1 Fluffing vs. Normal Puffing in Parrots

1. Differences between fluffing and puffing

Parrots are the most common pet birds, but experienced owners are few; many birds decline slowly and, without action, soon need replacing. Know the signs.

1. Head state: when fluffing or puffing, head feathers differ. Fluffing raises head feathers so you may see skin beneath; puffing also raises them but they usually can’t stand upright.

2. Breathing rate: fluffing brings fast, irregular breathing unlike normal; puffing keeps a near-normal rate.

3. Droppings: fluffing shows in droppings — diarrhea or color change; puffing keeps normal droppings.

2. What to do about fluffing

Fluffing shows clear abnormality, usually a health problem. Monitor the parrot for other symptoms. Sometimes a cold causes fluffing — give medicine, glucose, and warmth. Sometimes anger causes it — find the cause and improve the environment.

That covers the difference between fluffing and puffing. For more, see the guide on why parrots fluff up.