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Why is my cockatiel not eating, pooping, and acting so sick?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Cockatiel | Female | 2 lbs

My cockatiel Xena (6-7 months old) has not pooped since today and isn't eating and drinking from today afternoon even though i tried feeding her myself (be it anythings fruits, pellets, water! ). Moreover her poop seems to be stuck on her vent feather, her wings are dropped down and she is also keeping her head down.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Jessica Desrosiers

Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on March 28th, 2019

It sounds like Xena is feeling pretty ill and should be seen by a vet. Issues such as GI upset, obstructions, egg-binding, illness, nutritional issues, parasites, etc can all cause the symptoms you are seeing and would need to be examined by a vet and treated. In the meantime, gently massaging around her vent and using a warm wet washcloth to loosen and remove the stool may provide some relief and help her go to the bathroom again. Keeping her in a warm hospital cage and eating and drinking as much as possible may also help until you can be seen by a vet.
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