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My cockatiel is sluggish, pooping a lot, tail swishing. Is she sick?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Cockatiel | Female | 1 year and 7 months old | 75 lbs

My 2 year old female cockatiel has been acting strange for the past 3 days and has been defecating in large amounts. She seems sluggish and has been doing an awkward movement with her tail, like a swishing back and forth. Rejects favorite foods and is more aggressive at times, or is protective around her cage.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on January 18th, 2020

Thanks for reaching out about Izzy and including photos. Is there chance she is egg bound? Cloacal masses (eggs, foreign bodies, etc.), intestinal infections, metabolic disorders (liver, kidney) and other problems. Being sluggish is a general sign of illness and not anything specific. A veterinary visit is highly recommended as soon as possible, as this appears very serious. Providing supplemental heat in the 80-85 F range might give some comfort. Good luck.

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