Why does my cockatiel have something in its nose? Is it serious?

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Cockatiels occasionally can form rhinoliths, which are small accumulations of debris and mineral. These are harmless but can clog the nares and result in trouble breathing. They can be carefully removed by a veterinarian. Other causes can be a fungal or bacterial infection which can be treated by antibiotics prescribed by your vet. I hope this helps and am happy to look at any photos or answer any questions you may have!

Sometimes, respiratory illness or fungal infections can cause growths or blocked nasal passageways in birds. If you can keep the area clear with a clean washcloth, that's best, however if there area is bothersome, can't be flushed out easily, or is changing in appearance, it would be best to have Luna looked at by a vet. They can safely flush out any debris in the nose and get her started on medication to treat any bacterial or fungal infection present.

This could be a sign of sinusitis, ie an infection of the sinuses caused by bacteria, a virus or a fungus. In countries with low humidity, this could also be a cause, however "heat" alone is not one. Some cockatiels also play with their nostrils and pick on them with their feet, This can also cause bloody discharge. However I do strongly suggest you take Rio to a veterinary doctor for an exam as a possible infection will need treatment. Here is a list of Avian vets in Chennai: https://www.lybrate.com/chennai/doctors-for-treatments-for-birds You can also take him to the veterinary college hospital: http://www.tanuvas.tn.nic.in/hospital_mvc.html

This is not at all normal and I would recommend seeing a vet immediately, especially if it has happened more than once. Injury to the face or nasal passages, respiratory problems, disease, illness, nutritional issues, something stuck in the nose, etc can all be possible causes, and seeking vet care ASAP is best to determine the problem. If Sunny is housed with any other birds, it would be best to move her to a separate hospital cage with easy access to food and water to prevent being picked on by other birds until you can get into your vet.

Without seeing a photo it is hard to say what you are describing. Cockatiels do have a normal crease in between nostrils which is what you may be seeing. However, some growths such as fungal or tumorous growths can appear there as well. If the area is rapidly changing, or Woody is showing any signs of illness such as refusal to eat or drink, listless behavior, etc, having a vet take a look is best.

Oh goodness. Poor little Guy. Unfortunately the pictures are too blurry to really visualize the lesion. I would worry about infection or possible self trauma. Is he rubbing his beak on anything in the cage? Is there crust or discharge from the nostril? If so then he may have an upper respiratory infection and should be seen my an avian veterinarian to develop a treatment plans. I hope he improves quickly .

Hi, and thanks for your question. This sign could be compatible with an upper respiratory tract inflammation/infection or possibly to a rhinitis (inflammatory, allergic, infective). A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!