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My parakeet's friend died. She's not eating. Does she need a friend?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Parakeet | Female | unspayed | 8 years old

Had two female parakeets since 2010 together. They never let me hold them which is fine, however one died this past Saturday. Will the other female be ok without her friend. She chirps and looks in all her mirrors but she hardly eats or drinks water. She nibbles on millet. If this continues do I need to get her another friend, & if so will it be ok to get her a cockatiel? Please advise what I need to do. I don’t want to get another bird however if thats what I need to do so she will be ok.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on October 10th, 2018

HI there! I've seen you've asked this question four times now, so I'm not sure if we're not giving you the answer you are looking for, or if you're looking for some sure-thing answer that is going to happen. We've already mentioned that some birds do well on their own, as long as they have enough enrichment, so if you're not looking to get another bird that is fine as long as your bird seems OK with this. This, however, is a decision you need to make on your own, and we cannot make the choice for you.

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 8th, 2018

    I am very sorry you lost your bird. Since parakeets are flocking birds she will need another companion or even a few more. However I would wait about 2 weeks before getting another bird, as you want to make sure the surviving bird is healthy.

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    Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 8th, 2018

    I am sorry to hear about your parakeet. Hopefully it was an old age issue, especially if they have been living together with you for years and indoors so exposure to disease is little. Parakeets are social birds, so your remaining bird my be depressed and lonely after losing her friend. You do have to be careful, however, introducing new birds to eachother especially if they are older, as there isn't a gaurantee they get along. I normally recommend housing them next to eachother for a time to get them used to eachother, then allowing short interactions while being observed to ensure no fighting ensues. Best of luck to you and your bird!

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