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My cockatiel is lethargic after his cage mate died. Is he sick?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Male | unneutered | 0.22 lbs

I've got a cockatiel around 3 years old. Recently his cage mate died and he's been acting out of the ordinary we since. He still sings and talks often but sometimes during the day his behaviour changes dramatically and it's like he's so lethargic and keeps his eyes closed. He becomes somewhat unresponsive as opposed to how alert and active he usually is. What should I do?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Emi Knafo, DVM, DACZM

Veterinarian, Board-Certified Zoological Medicine Specialist

Published on December 24th, 2017

Hi, Your bird may be mourning the loss of his cage mate. However, I am also worried that whatever caused the passing of the cage mate may have been infectious and could be affecting your remaining bird. An exam by your veterinarian would be the best course of action to be sure there isn’t an illness at play.

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