My new cockatiel is staying on the floor. Is it a sign of illness?

Unfortunately, the symptoms you described are very vague signs of illness, so it would be hard to say what is going on without an exam in person. It's good that you're keeping her separated, and I would do so by keeping her in a warm hospital cage to see if that helps her improve. It's possible the diarrhea could be due to a diet change and the stress of coming to a new home, so giving her a day or two to see if she improves may help. Checking for parasites, and making sure she's on a balanced diet (removing any snacks or fruits and veggies for a few days if she has GI upset) may also help. As for the toe, that is very common in commercially bred birds. If it is causing trouble I would have it examined when you are able, but provide low, flat perches and platforms for her to hang out on in the meantime. This can help her stretch the toe and have a place to relax without losing balance. If she doesn't improve in a day or so, or seems to get worse, it is best to try and find a bird vet in your area that can see her right away.

Ideally, Pidori should be examined by a veterinarian to confirm good health or to treat any pre existing conditions. Submit a stool sample to diagnose intestinal parasites (worms). Provide a cage large enough to prevent wingtip or tail rubbing. A cuttlebone and/or mineral block should be provided as well. Place several perches in the cage. Use perches of varying sizes and thickness to promote foot health. Feed a quality commercial pelleted diet as the staple (80%). Supplement with a fortified seed mix and fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, avocado and pits or seed from fruit. Cockatiels can eat a wide variety of fresh foods such as pastas, cooked egg and beans. Signs of illness include very loose or discolored droppings, a loss of appetite, lethargy (especially when perched with feathers fluffed out).

If she only sat there for a few minutes and does not constantly sit on the bottom of the cage, appears happy, healthy and not puffed up, then I would not worry about this. Sometimes birds want to explore the floor, or there was a draft they tried to get away from, or it was too hot on the perch and cooler on the bottom.

I think I would be worried and you should take him to a vet that specializes in birds to examine him. He may have an underlying illness or it may be related to stress. Either way, this is not normal behavior an you should really have him checked out. It it is nothing medical, then at least you have that peace of mind and the vet can give you some good resources on cockatiel care and feeding so that you are sure to have everything correct. This article addresses cockatiel behavior: http://www.cockatielcottage.net/questions4.html Hope this helps. Best wishes.

Thanks for reaching out about Pablo. Sleeping on the bottom of the cage is a general sign of weakness or illness. Remove perches and provide a soft towel on which to lie. Provide heat support in the 80-85 F range for aid. A veterinary visit to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan is recommended. Offer food and water via a syringe for some nutrition and fluid. Good luck.

Those are all very general signs that could indicate Quill isn't feeling well, especially since birds are very good at hiding illnesses until its too late. If the temperature in her room checks out OK and she is still showing symptoms, it wouldn't hurt to bring her to a vet just in case to rule out any issues. Taking note of any other changes, such as to stool consistency, eating habits, etc can also help clue you in (and your vet) to possible issues.

Ideally, Pedro should be physically examined by a veterinarian. If an avian vet is not available, see the local veterinarian. He or she can contact an avian specialist by phone or online. Place him in his own cage or remove the chicken chicks. It isn't recommended to keep these two species caged together. Offer a mash made with warm water and a handfeeding formula to get him eating. Unflavored PediaLyte can be given via dropper if he will accept it. Keep him warm and as stress free as possible until he sees the doctor.