How to Care for a Cockatiel Bird

Select the proper cage for your pet. One that has several perches and is large enough for the bird to move from place to place is optimal. A square or rectangular cage with a simple, sturdy structure works for the bird as well as for you when cleaning. Buy the largest cage that that you can afford and that will fit in the allotted space.

Place the cage in an area that is temperate and without cold drafts but that also has a good air flow. Do not place it near the kitchen or any areas with scented candles, air fresheners, perfumes or chemical fumes. Cockatiels are very sensitive to chemical fumes; things like Teflon, air fresheners or smoke can cause lung damage or even kill a cockatiel.

Line the bottom of the cage with newspaper. This allows for easier cleaning, and you can visually inspect droppings for any signs of health problems.

Install a tree branch as a main perch. Choose a smooth, bark-free branch of hardwood that is a comfortable size for your bird's feet. You can purchase one for this purpose, or if you harvest your own, be sure it is from a pesticide-free tree. Also provide a rope perch or swing and a sand-covered perch to help file the bird's nails and beak. These should not be the main perch, but they will help keep your bird from getting bored.

Clean the cage at least once a week, if not more. Remove the soiled newspaper and replace it with fresh. Clean food dishes with hot soapy water and rinse well. Wash the water bottle and spout. Remove any toy debris, and replace with new ones. Wipe the cage down with a chemical-free cleaner; there are cleaning solutions at pet stores designed for this purpose. An alternative is to just use hot water and a sponge.

Feed your cockatiel a diet of pellets and a selection of fresh seeds, fruits and raw vegetables. Vary the fresh food offerings to prevent boredom. Sliced apples, chopped melon, grapes and chopped sweet potatoes are good options. Occasionally include a protein, such as beans, in your bird's diet.

Provide fresh distilled water daily. Tap water may contain sanitizing chemicals that are harmful to the bird.

Place a shallow dish in the cage as a bird bath once a week or every two weeks. The bird will enjoy the water, and it helps keep it clean. Be sure the water is clean, clear and chemical free.

Trim the bird's claws regularly with bird nail trimmers. If you are not comfortable with this job, the vet can do it for you.

Place a night light near the cage. You can partially cover the cage at night to prevent drafts and give comfort, but face part of the cage toward the night light and leave the cover up at least partially on that side. Cockatiels sometimes have night frights and can thrash and injure themselves; a night light can help prevent this.

Give the bird toys to play with. A cockatiel likes to shred or tear, so be aware that you may need to replace toys as they are destroyed.

Take the bird to a veterinarian qualified in bird care on a regular basis. Have a travel cage for trips to the vet. Make sure it is large enough to contain the bird but not so big that the bird is tossed around during transport.

Interact with your bird daily. Talk to the bird and take it out of the cage for short periods of time for exercise and play. Practice having the bird perch on your finger, and attempt to teach it tricks. Cockatiels like to be stimulated and need constant contact with their owners.