cockatiels?

Question

Bird has been losing all feathers on left side and sometimes doesn't seem to know me. Acting strange

Answer 1

How old is it? If it is really old like around 20, it could be just be an old age thing. Even if it is old, I would definitely take it to a vet. Look for a vet that specializes in pet birds. Some of these vets charge "exotic animal" fees which is ridicuolous. I found a wonderful vet (though I have to travel an hour) that charges the same fee as she would a cat or dog. I have cockatiels but know very little about their health. It almost sounds stress related. Is it lonely? Also, you don't keep it near a draft? If so, move the cage to a warmer area. Keep the cage very clean and clean it and its' toys and feed dishes with a teeny amount of hot bleach water (rinse well) to prevent bacteria which could make your bird sick. How is your bird acting strange? Like I said, your best bet is to take it to a vet that specializes in pet birds. You might have to travel a bit but it's worth it if you love your bird. Euthanasia might be your best bet. They might want to run a battery of tests that is extremely stressful on a bird not to mention expensive. You could also just let nature take it's course and not take it to the vet. My concern is if you have other birds, isolate it ASAP in case it's something catching. Good luck. I have 3 'tiels myself and they are great pets.

Answer 2

Birds can get a disease called Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease, or PBFD. I would highly recommend a vet visit with a highly qualified bird expert. I work for one, but I don't know where you live. It is a highly contageous disease that birds pass back and forth and can be fatal.