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Post by roxhum on Nov 3, 2013 17:33:54 GMT
I am just wondering if I should be doing something special or different with my 15 year old cockatiel. The breeder that gave her to me said she should live another 10 plus years. She seems perfectly healthy. I am a bit concerned that she doesn't eat fresh veggies. I am going to introduce pellets to her and will continue to put fresh food in her cage everyday. Should I encourage her to fly a bit every day, as exercise. She hadn't been out of her cage for a year or more before I got her two weeks ago. She does fly from her cage to my shoulder. She doesn't play with her toys, but it has only been two weeks so maybe she will, maybe she won't.
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Post by Emily on Nov 3, 2013 18:03:51 GMT
I would say provide perches that are easier to grip, I'd assume that as birds get older, like us, we don't have the continuous strength to hold onto something or balance.  I've also read that some older birds like a quieter area---so unless you have children running and screaming throughout the section of your home that your cockatiel is, she should be fine. I think trying to get her to eat veggies and fruits would definitely help her as well |
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Post by Sarah on Nov 3, 2013 18:51:44 GMT
You should definitely encourage her to fly a little farther each day. She needs to be building up strength after so long a stint in her cage. Her heart and lungs are not going to be in the best shape because of her inactivity and age. If you can slowly increase her fitness level, you will increase her overall health, longevity, psychological health and overall quality of life.
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Post by roxhum on Nov 4, 2013 1:38:01 GMT
Emily and Sarah, that you so much for your responses. I live alone and work full time so it is a pretty quiet house. She lives next door to two young active budgies. Sarah, I kind of thought some more flying would be good for her. Because of her age I have decided not to get her a cage mate. Even though I work 4 1/2 days a week she is still getting a lot more attention and stimulation then I think she was getting before.
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Post by Sarah on Nov 4, 2013 17:19:30 GMT
That's wonderful Roxhum! I'm glad you are bringing each other companionship and some joy in life |
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