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Why isn't my new cockatiel eating or drinking after coming home?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Male | 6 months and 8 days old | 0 lbs

We just got a cockatiel yesterday he is quiet and he rarely eats/drinks and he always sleep. My mom says he will die. But he is actually energetic I think he is 6 months old. Sometimes he falter. What do I have to do to make him eat/drink?

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 18th, 2017

It is possible your bird is eating and drinking while you aren't watching. He may be nervous in his new environment and feel uncomfortable eating while you are around. Be sure he is in a quiet environment where he can be left alone for periods to adjust to his new life. I would also try to find out what food he was eating before he came and get that exact food as some birds are very particular and don't like change/will refuse to eat new foods.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Todd Cecil

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 3rd, 2019

    Thanks for reaching out about Diablo. Moving to a new home can be very stressful, so try to limit stress by lowering light intensity, into a quiet area and offer food and water by hand. Contact the store and match food offered. If persists, a veterinary visit is recommended to assess. Good luck.

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    Answered By Todd Cecil

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 29th, 2019

    Thanks for reaching out about Shree and including photos. These bird might not have been fully weaned. If they were hand-reared (syringe fed), try that with food and water. If can return to the store for help, do that. Not eating or drinking in 24 hours can be very serious. Birds do better in warmer environments, so providing heat support (24/7) to the 80-85 F range can help. Good luck.

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