How do you health check a cockatiel?

Question

What do you look for? What areas of the bird do you look at?

Thanxs!! :D

Answer 1

I think it's really a matter of knowing the usual behaviours of your bird. Like, mine is really really active, he's always amongst the family. So I knew when he was sick, because he was very quiet, and just sat all fluffed up in his cage.

Also, if you sprinkle water down their backs, if they're healthy, the water should roll off their feathers, rather than become absorbed into them.

Answer 2

Look and LISTEN for her breathing which should be quiet but rapid.  Check her vent which should not have any fecal matter clinging to it.  Her droppings shouldn't be all runny.  She should have a good energy level and nice bright eyes.  Her feathers should be bright & glossy.  Check out this website:  BirdChannel.com  or www.birdtalkmagazine.com