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Injured cockatoo not eating, losing weight. How to force-feed safely?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Cockatoo | Male | 2 years and 10 months old | 0.3 lbs

My pet Galah Cockatoo has weak and tired for about 2-3, he had an accident about a week and a half ago and was prescribed with medicine for his wound. He hasn’t been eating or drinking enough and has lost 30g of his weight my vet said to force feed but I don’t know how without hurting or irritate him what should i do

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Penelope Graben, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 14th, 2019

Hello, I'm sorry to hear that Sugar has not been doing well. I would recommend having Sugar seen by their veterinarian for a recheck. 30g is a very significant weight loss and I worry about the continued lack of nutrition and hydration worsening the original injury and delaying healing. It may be best to have Sugar hospitalized for regular feedings and medication administration until he is stronger. I hope this is helpful. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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