Cancer in Birds: Signs, Causes, and Treatments

 

Cancer in birds is a serious and often under-diagnosed health concern. Like humans and other animals, birds can develop many types of tumors and cancers, affecting organs, tissues, and systems. Understanding the signs of cancer in birds, where it can develop, and what you can do as a bird owner or caregiver can help ensure early detection and better outcomes.

Whether you're a parrot owner, avian rescuer, or a bird lover, knowing the types of cancer that birds can develop, and where they occur, can help you support your parrot. 

What is Avian Cancer?

Avian cancer refers to the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in birds. These cells can form tumors (benign or malignant) and may spread (metastasize) to other parts of the bird’s body. Unlike benign tumors, malignant tumors are dangerous and life-threatening if not treated.

What Is Cancer in Birds?

Cancer in birds refers to the abnormal and uncontrolled growth of cells in their body. These abnormal cells can form lumps (tumors) or grow in internal organs. While some tumors are harmless, others can spread quickly and harm vital organs.

Common Types of Cancer in Birds

Different types of cancer can affect different bird species. Some of the more common types include:

• Lipomas: Fatty tumors, especially in parrots like budgies and Amazons.

• Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Often found in the beak or skin.

• Lymphoma: A cancer of the immune system that can affect internal organs.

• Adenocarcinoma: Often found in the reproductive system, liver, or kidneys.

Cancer in Birds: How It Affects Different Parts of the Body

Birds can develop cancer—abnormal and uncontrolled cell growth that can affect nearly any part of their bodies. While some tumors are visible externally, many types of avian cancer grow silently inside until symptoms become serious. Understanding which areas cancer may affect helps bird owners and caregivers recognize potential warning signs early.

External Cancers in Birds

1. Skin Tumors

• Location: Anywhere on the skin—often around the face, beak, vent, or legs.

• Common Types: Squamous cell carcinoma, fibrosarcoma.

• Symptoms:

• Lumps or ulcers that don’t heal

• Redness or bleeding

• Feather loss over the area

• Changes in skin color or texture

2. Beak and Nail Cancers

• Location: Beak surface or internal beak tissue, toenails.

• Symptoms:

• Cracked, deformed, or overgrown beak

• Bleeding or pain when eating

• Loss of grip due to nail involvement

3. Feather Follicle Tumors

• Location: Often along the wings or lower back.

• Common Types: Lipomas, feather cysts, and follicular tumors.

• Symptoms:

• Lumpy areas under the skin

• Distorted or blocked feather growth

• Feather picking due to irritation

Internal Cancers in Birds

1. Liver Cancer (Hepatic Carcinoma or Lymphoma)

• Symptoms:

• Swollen abdomen or fluid buildup

• Yellowing of the skin (jaundice)

• Weight loss, lethargy

• Regurgitation or change in droppings (green or loose)

2. Kidney Tumors

• Symptoms:

• Weakness or paralysis in one leg (nerve compression)

• Sitting low on the perch

• Increased urination or watery droppings

• Lameness or lack of coordination

3. Reproductive Organ Cancers (Ovarian, Testicular, Oviduct Tumors)

• Symptoms:

• Chronic egg laying or egg binding

• Swollen abdomen

• Respiratory distress from pressure on air sacs

• Behavior changes (aggression or depression)

4. Gastrointestinal Tract Tumors

• Location: Proventriculus, intestines, cloaca.

• Symptoms:

• Vomiting or regurgitation

• Undigested food in droppings

• Diarrhea or constipation

• Loss of appetite and condition

5. Lymphoma

• Systemic cancer of the lymphatic and blood system.

• Symptoms vary widely:

• Weight loss

• Respiratory difficulty

• Swollen organs detectable via imaging or palpation

• Neurological signs if brain or spine is involved

Brain and Nervous System Tumors

• Symptoms:

• Seizures or tremors

• Head tilting

• Loss of balance or coordination

• Sudden behavior changes

Bone and Muscle Tumors

• Common Types: Sarcomas.

• Symptoms:

• Lameness or reluctance to perch

• Swelling over bones

• Muscle wasting

• Pain on touch

Causes of Cancer in Birds

The exact cause of cancer in birds isn’t always known, but some possible factors include:

• Genetics: Some birds may be more prone due to inherited traits.

• Poor Diet: Diets high in fat and low in nutrients may increase cancer risk.

• Environmental Toxins: Exposure to smoke, household cleaners, or pesticides.

• Chronic Inflammation or Infection: Long-term health issues may lead to abnormal cell growth.

• Viral infections: Papillomavirus and avian leukosis virus can trigger certain cancers.

• Hormonal Imbalances: Especially in female birds with reproductive cancers.

How Cancer Progresses in Birds

Birds are prey animals, and they instinctively hide signs of illness. This makes early detection challenging. Often, by the time symptoms appear, the cancer may already be advanced or have spread (metastasized). Diagnostic imaging, biopsy, and sometimes blood work are necessary to confirm and identify tumor types.

Signs of Cancer in Birds

Birds are very good at hiding illness. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to even small changes. Here are some signs to watch for:

• Unusual lumps or swellings

• Weight loss or poor appetite

• Changes in droppings

• Difficulty breathing or labored movement

• Change in voice or behavior

• Bleeding without an injury

• Enlarged abdomen or breast area

• Digestive issues or changes in droppings

If you see any of these signs, take your bird to an avian vet as soon as possible.

Diagnosing Cancer in Birds

Diagnosing cancer in birds can be tricky. Your avian vet may use:

• Physical exam

• X-rays or ultrasound

• Blood tests

• Biopsy (removing a small sample of tissue)

Early diagnosis is key to better outcomes.

Treatment Options

Treatment for cancer in birds depends on the type and how advanced it is. Options may include:

• Surgical Removal: Some tumors can be removed safely.

• Medications: To slow down cancer or manage symptoms.

• Radiation therapy (rarely available)

• Supportive Care: Including nutritional support and pain management.

• Euthanasia (if quality of life is severely impacted)

Sadly, not all cancers are curable, but many birds can still enjoy a good quality of life with the right care.

How to Prevent Cancer in Birds

While not all cases can be prevented, here are ways to lower the risk:

• Feed a balanced, species-appropriate diet with fresh vegetables.

• Keep your bird’s environment clean and toxin-free.

• Avoid smoking or using aerosols near your bird.

• Provide regular vet checkups, especially for aging birds.

• Providing exercise and mental stimulation

• Watch for hormonal behaviors and seek vet advice.

Cancer in birds is more common than many people think. While some tumors are benign and manageable, others are aggressive and life-threatening. Early detection is key. If your bird shows unusual symptoms, visit an avian vet promptly.

With proper care, many birds with cancer can live comfortably and even recover, depending on the type and stage of the disease.

More Articles About Bird Health 

Bird Obesity: What You Should Know

Illness in Birds and Their Symptoms

Parrot Care Made Simple: Quick Guide

How anatomy shapes behavior 

 

Monika Sangar, MSc – Molecular Biology | Avian Nutrition Specialist | Founder: PDSnonprofit | Owner: Pds Parrot Shop 

Monika Sangar is a parrot rescuer, bird food chef, and toy designer with over a decade of experience in avian care and nutrition. She is the founder of Prego Dalliance Sanctuary and the author of The Science of Avian Nutrition, a cookbook dedicated to fresh, healthy meals for parrots. Explore more bird care tips and bird toys at PDS Parrot Shop!