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Question:

June 5, 2020

Sick Cockatiel


Hi, My Cockatiel is age 29 and last couple of days, tail bobbing, poor appetite, silent and sleeping a lot sometimes on the bottom of the cage. He has fell off his perch a few times too. I think he’s dying as he is so old. What do you think.?


Answer:

Hi Mary,

I’m so sorry your old guy is sick. When a bird shows any signs of illness, they need to be seen by an avian vet as soon as possible. Given your bird’s advanced age, he may just be failing. I would keep him warm, with food and water in easy reach. You can place a light near the cage or put a heating pad set on low under the cage. If possible, lower the perches and put paper towels over the floor grate if there is one to give him a softer surface. You can also cover part of the cage to keep it warmer. Old birds tend to go down fast, so he might not last the night. If he does, you need to decide if you think he can make it to a Vet or if it will help him. My experience with elderly birds is they tend to pass away in their sleep. You know him best after so many years with him, so give him some love and attention and if it is his time to go, at least you know you made him comfortable and gave him a wonderful, long life.

Take care,

Brenda

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