How do you take care of cockatiel birds at home?

6 Essential Facts About Cockatiels

Are you a beginner in cockatiel ownership? Here are six important things you should know about these delightful birds:

1. Size: Cockatiels belong to the cockatoo family but are the smallest members. They can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) in length.

2. Lifespan: Cockatiels have a relatively long lifespan and can live for 15 years or more with proper care and attention.

3. Temperament: Cockatiels are highly social creatures and thrive on daily interaction with their human companions. They enjoy forming strong bonds with their owners.

4. Intelligence: These birds are intelligent and can learn commands and tricks. With patience and consistent training, you can teach your cockatiel various behaviors and skills.

5. Origin: Cockatiels are native to Australia. They are found in the wild across the continent, particularly in arid regions.

6. Setting up their home: To create a comfortable living environment for your cockatiel, consider the following tips:

• Cockatiels are social birds and often do well when kept in pairs or small groups.
• Select a cage that is at least twice the size of your cockatiel's wingspan, with a minimum size of 20 x 20 x 30 inches. If you have multiple birds, choose a larger cage accordingly.
• Place the cage in a central location within the house, such as the living room, den, or bedroom, where your bird can feel part of the family.
• Avoid placing the cage near the kitchen or windows, as birds are sensitive to strong smells, gases, smoke, and drafts.
• Provide a variety of perches of different heights, thicknesses, and textures to keep your cockatiel's feet healthy.
• Avoid placing perches directly above the bird's food or water bowl to prevent droppings from soiling them.
• Line the cage floor with recycled-paper bedding or use a paper liner, replacing it at least every other day.

Feeding your cockatiel:

• Cockatiels have a varied diet that includes commercial birdseed, pelleted food, fresh vegetables, fruits, and occasional treats.
• A mix of 75% pellets and 25% seeds should be the mainstay of their diet. Keep the food bowl three-quarters full and refresh it daily.
• Offer dark, leafy greens and fresh veggies every other day, making up no more than 20% of their overall diet.
• Fresh fruits like berries, melons, papaya, or kiwi can be given every other day as well.
• Treat your cockatiel to a honey stick or millet spray once a month as a special treat.
• Ensure your bird has access to fresh, clean water at all times.

Playing and grooming:

• Cockatiels are playful and enjoy interacting with their owners. Aim to spend at least one hour a day holding or playing with your bird.
• Provide toys inside the cage, including puzzles that hide treats, to keep your cockatiel entertained.
• Allow your cockatiel to perch on a T-stand outside the cage to provide mental and physical stimulation.
• Offer your bird a shallow bowl of warm water 2-3 times a week for bathing or mist them gently with warm water from a clean spray bottle.

Maintaining your cockatiel's health:

• Allow your cockatiel to settle into its new home for a few days before handling it extensively.
• Schedule annual vet visits for your bird, and seek medical attention sooner if you notice signs of illness or distress, such as sitting at the bottom of the cage, decreased appetite, weight loss, reduced activity, fluffed feathers, abnormal droppings, or respiratory symptoms.
• Consult an avian veterinarian if you have any concerns or questions about your bird's health.

Remember these pet safety tips:

• Handle your pets with caution, as they may bite or scratch, especially when stressed.
• Supervise children when they interact with pets.
• All animals, including cockatiels, can potentially transmit diseases to humans. Wash your hands thoroughly with warm, soapy water before and after handling your pet or cleaning its habitat.
• Assist children in washing their hands after contact with a pet or its habitat.
• At PetSmart, pets go through the Vet Assured™ program, ensuring their health and well-being. This program includes high standards for pet care and screening for common illnesses.
• PetSmart also offers the PetSmart Promise, which allows for pet replacement or a refund within the first 14 days if your pet becomes ill or if you're unsatisfied for any reason.

Owning a cockatiel can be a rewarding experience. With proper care, attention, and love, you can provide a happy and healthy life for your feathered friend