The biggest challenge in Cockatiel care is health because it's just not a single concern. There are two major difficulties involved in avian sickness. The first is recognizing it and the second is treating. The bird's inherent behavior often contributes to this difficulty.

Why is that so? For that we have to understand something about avian instinct. Avian instinct is rather peculiar. An ill bird will act healthier than it really is. It will try to keep its illness even from its flock-mates to avoid their displeasure.

Because of this, often a bird is very sick before we realize that something is wrong with it. Fortunately there are some physical signs that show that all is not well with a bird.

So, you should always be on the lookout for the most common signs of avian sickness. These include fluffed or unusual plumage, absence of preening and vocalization. Watery
droppings, dullness, loss of appetite and sudden changes in its physical appearance and behavior are the other common signs.

In cases where it's in an advanced stage of sickness, you will notice that the bird is shaky on its feet and tends to sleep a lot, especially with its head tucked under its wing. A preference to rest on the cage floor rather on its perch will be apparent. Drastic changes in fecal color, labored breathing, constant discharge from the nose, eyes or mouth and excessive weight loss are other indications that your pet bird is seriously ill.

Crooked beak and/or crooked toenails are indications that the bird has been ill for a long time.

In cases where the bird's illness is not serious, you may attempt some "first aid". I have listed them here for your reference.

Remember, all ill birds stay as motionless as possible in order to conserve energy. Therefore, the first thing to do is not disturb the bird unless absolutely necessary.

Handle it only when you have to feed it or give it water.

Make sure the bird's cage is warm enough.

Use an indirect heat source.

Maintain a 'higher than usual' cage humidity.

Place the cage in a calm location with soft lighting.

Keep a bowl of clean water and a bowl of the bird's favorite feed.

Now, with all these tips, you should be well-equipped to provide your bird with the best conditions until the arrival of the vet.

The above is an excerpt from the free newsletter on “Definitive Guide To Cockatiels” published by Geostar Publishing & Services LLC.

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Here's to a happier pet-owing experience!


Jessica Harrison
Geostar Publishing & Services LLC
6423, Woodbine Court,
St. Louis, Missouri,
63109, USA

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