My new cockatiel's underwing skin looks concerning. What should I do?

The grey covering is a sheath that is on new or developing feathers. His skin looks irritated which may be due to parasites or infection. Ideally, he should be examined by your veterinarian or an experienced avian veterinarian. Clean and sanitize the cage, bowls, perches and toys. Discard anything that cannot be sanitized. Transition him to s commercial pelleted diet such as Harrison's, Lafeber, Exxact or Pretty Bird. You can supplement with a small amount of a fortified seed mix as well as with fresh vegetables and fruits.

Hi there, These wounds appear superficial from the photograph. It would be best to have him seen by a doctor familiar with birds for a full physical to ensure he doesn't have any underlying bruises or fractures from the fights. They can also discuss best husbandry and care practices with you for long term health. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck to you and your new friend!

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).

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.

Thanks for reaching out about Oscar and including photos. Did you have wings trimmed recently? This appears to be a contusion on the tissue close to the vent (but not) that happens when cockatiels jump/fall, wings are over trimmed and they hit the ground hard. The tail becomes hyper-extended dorsally, ripping the skin. The wound needs to be cleaned, and systemic antibiotics can assist with infection prevention. A veterinary visit is recommended. Lower perches to 3-6 inches above the bottom of the cage, place a soft towel to lighten falling. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Keke and including a photo. Unfortunately the photo does not indicate an abnormality as is slightly out of focus and dark. Discolored beaks and dull plumage can be an indication of illness, whether an infection or due to sub-standard nutrition. If you haven't seen a veterinary after acquisition, that would be a good idea. Also discuss with the vet the proper nutrition for birds, as seed is not an all inclusive nutritional palette. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out. Typically this is an indiction of not grooming herself, but also possibly not eating well. First, contact the vendor, and if that is no help, seek an examination with a veterinarian. Provide heat support in the meantime, try to decrease stress. Good luck.