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Why is my cockatiel eating its own droppings? Is this normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Male

My cockatiel eats it's own droppings. Is this normal? I provide plenty of food and drink

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on March 17th, 2017

This is not normal. It may be due to boredom, hunger or nutritional deficiency. Young birds may do this because they do not know any better yet. Review the diet with an experienced avian veterinarian to correct any deficiencies. Use a cage with a raised wire bottom so the droppings fall through and out of reach. Clean the cage regularly to avoid build up of droppings on bars.

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