Common Conditions of Cockatiels

Cockatiels make excellent pets. They are friendly and inquisitive birds that enjoy being handled and love social interaction. Male birds are generally better talkers than female birds, who are gentler and quieter. Cockatiels can live for up to 30 years if they are cared for properly.

Chlamydiosis or psittacosis is seen in cockatiels. The organism can cause a wide range of signs such as conjunctivitis, breathing problems, diarrhoea, weight loss and sudden death, and is transmissible to man.

Protozoal infections such as Giardia and Trichomonas can cause serious disease. Giardia in cockatiels can cause feather plucking, unthriftiness and voluminous droppings.

Cockatiels can become obese if overfed, and stress in these birds can result in sudden death. Fatty liver disease (hepatic lipidosis) also occurs in overweight birds.

If you are concerned about any signs of illness in your cockatiel you should contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. Treatment for many of these conditions requires prescription medications available only from your vet.

- Last updated 16 November 2012