For example, if your cockatiel is no longer coming up to you when you approach the cage, they may not be feeling well.
Sitting or lying on the bottom of the cage. Inability to fly or exercise. Sleeping for long periods of time. Ignoring you if they are normally social. Ignoring sounds or movement around them. Sitting on a perch with their feathers fluffed up.
Changes in food or stress can also cause eating problems. If the cockatiel is sick, the loss of appetite will be accompanied by other symptoms.
The room may be too warm. They may be feeding their young. Their food may be too salty. They are very active.
Sometimes birds will pluck their feathers. This might be due to sickness, stress, or anxiety. Treat these issues early to prevent lasting problems. While cockatiels may fluff up their feathers while sleeping, their feathers should not be puffed up all day long. If they are doing this for long periods, take them to a vet.
Conjunctivitis (also known as pink eye) is a common disease in cockatiels. Loss of feathers around their eyes can be a sign that they have mites.
A lack of urine Watery feces or urates Diarrhea Yellow, green, red, or black coloration Undigested food in their droppings
Try giving the cockatiel a seed to see how well they can eat it. If they struggle to eat it, they need to see a vet.
The Association of Avian Veterinarians has a database where you can look up local avian vets. You can also ask your regular small animal veterinarian if they know of any avian specialists near you.
Weight loss Vomiting Diarrhea Seizures Sneezing Any signs of blood
Bloodwork Fecal tests Viral screening X-rays Psittacosis Testing Fungal testing
It is best to keep the cockatiel in a separate room while quarantining. Always feed and clean the quarantined cockatiel after taking care of the other birds.
