Charis Vets cares for birds and exotic pets as well as dogs and cats. Our team in Budaiya offers health checks, treatment and surgery for pet birds, small mammals and reptiles across Bahrain.
Animals we see
- Birds: parrots, budgies and other small birds
- Small mammals: rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and ferrets
- Reptiles: tortoises, lizards such as bearded dragons, and other reptiles
Our services for birds and exotics
- Health checks: a full examination, plus advice on diet, housing and care.
- Nail, beak and wing trims: done safely to avoid injury and stress.
- Surgery: when your pet needs an operation.
- DNA sexing for birds: we take the sample and send it to a specialist external laboratory.
The problems we see most: diet and housing
Most of the illness our vets see in birds and exotic pets in Bahrain comes from improper nutrition and improper housing and husbandry. These problems build up slowly, so pets can seem fine until they become seriously unwell. Common examples include:
- Parrots fed mainly on seeds, which can lead to nutritional deficiencies
- Rabbits and guinea pigs without enough hay, which their teeth and digestion depend on
- Reptiles kept without the right heat and UVB lighting
- Cages and enclosures that are too small, or placed in direct sun or draughts
A health check is the best time to review your pet’s diet and set-up. It helps to bring photos of the cage or enclosure and a list of what your pet eats.
Signs your bird or exotic pet is unwell
Birds and small animals often hide illness until it is advanced, so act early if you notice:
- Fluffed-up feathers, sitting on the cage floor, or sleeping more
- Changes in droppings, or no droppings
- Eating less or not at all. A rabbit that stops eating needs to be seen the same day.
- Breathing with the tail bobbing, or open-mouth breathing
- Weight loss, lethargy or hiding
Read our guides Pet bird care in Bahrain and Bearded dragon care in Bahrain.
Frequently asked questions
How should I bring my bird to the clinic?
Use a small, secure carrier or travel cage, covered with a light cloth to keep your bird calm. Avoid leaving it in a hot car.
How often should my bird or exotic pet have a check-up?
At least once a year, and as soon as you notice any change in behaviour, eating or droppings.
See all our veterinary services.
Book an appointment
Call 1310 6800, message us on WhatsApp at 3362 0201, or book online. Charis Vets is at Building 1583A, Road 80, Block 473, Budaiya, and is open Saturday to Thursday.