If you think your parrot has eaten something toxic, don't wait for symptoms — birds hide illness and decline fast. Work through these steps, and when in doubt, call a vet. This page is a quick reference, not a substitute for veterinary care.
Take away anything left of the food and move your parrot somewhere safe and warm where you can watch it. Don't try to make your bird vomit — that's dangerous in birds.
Write down exactly what was eaten, roughly how much, and the time. For packaged foods, keep the label — sweeteners like xylitol and ingredients like onion or garlic powder change how urgent it is.
Phone your avian vet, the nearest emergency vet, or an animal poison control hotline immediately. Describe the food and your bird's size and species. Early treatment is what saves birds — call before symptoms appear, not after.
Fluffed-up posture, lethargy, balance problems, vomiting/regurgitation, laboured breathing, or changes in droppings all mean get to the vet fast. Keep your bird warm and calm during transport.
Tap any food for the specific toxin and emergency guidance.