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What caused my older cockatiel's sudden death after a night fright?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Cockatiel | Male | unneutered

My 17 year old cockatiel had a night fright the other night and I came in the next morning to find him dead. His head was tilted completely to the side and there was a bump at the base of his body where his neck would start and there was blood in his throat and beak. His wing was also stuck in the bars of his cage floor, but I didn't see much obvious struggle. I need a some closure, do you think he broke his neck? Our bird room is near my hubby's parents room and they didn't hear him go down.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on March 30th, 2019

Sorry to hear about Iago. Concerns might consist of a seizure or other neurological event (i.e. stroke). Liver, renal and cardiac disease can all show similar signs. As Iago was middle aged to older, metabolic disorders are a little more common.
Once again, sorry for your loss.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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