Cockatiel Care Guide

LIFE SPAN

25+ years 

AVERAGE SIZE

 11-14 inches long

MALE OR FEMALE?

Cockatiels are sexually dimorphic, which means males and females are visually different. Female Cockatiels have small white dots on the tops of the tips of their flight feathers and black barring and stripes on the undersides of their wings and tail. However, all Cockatiels have the markings of a female until they are six months old, after that, the males lose these features.

NORMAL BEHAVIOR & INTERACTION

Birds are flock-oriented animals, and they do well with other birds in the home to communicate with. However, you and your family become part of your bird’s flock as well. 

DIET

Cockatiels DO NOT live by seed alone! Cockatiels need a good quality pellet diet mixed with seeds, vegetables, fruits and grains for a complete diet. We recommend a 60% pellet/20% seed/20% fresh food combination.

SUPPLEMENTS

Cockatiels need calcium which can be offered in the form of a cuttlebone or calcium treat. Birds should also be exposed to UVB light for at least 3-4 hours per day if natural sunlight is not provided.

WATER

Fresh, chlorine free water must be available to your bird at all times. Cockatiels often bathe in their water, so water may need to be changed multiple times a day.

HOUSING & ENVIRONMENT

A single bird should have a cage no smaller than 24”L x 18”W x 24”H. Two birds should have a cage measuring at least 28”L x 24”W x 36”H. Perches of varying materials and types should be included in the cage. The cage should be placed in a family centered room where the bird(s) will feel a part of the “flock.” 

ENRICHMENT

Birds are very smart and inquisitive animals who need to keep their minds busy to prevent boredom and stress. At least three different types of toys should be available to your bird in his cage at one time appropriate for their size. Rotating these toys out often is recommended. 

CAGE MAINTENANCE

Your Cockatiel’s cage should be spot cleaned daily for feces and spoiling food. Floor bedding or paper should be changed every few days and the entire habitat cleaned at least once a month.

GROOMING & HYGIENE

All birds should be gently misted with a water bottle dedicated to this use only. Spray up and over the bird to replicate a fine rain. NEVER spray the bird directly in the face. In addition to misting, a room temperature birdbath should be offered to your bird at least twice weekly.

RECOMMENDED SUPPLIES

• Bird cage (min 24”L x 18”W x 24”H) for 1 bird, with bar space no larger than ⅜” to ½”
• UVB bulb & housing (if needed)
• Bedding for the bottom of the cage
• At least 3 different types of perches
• 3 sturdy dishes: 1 for fresh water, 1 for pellet/seed mix, 1 for fresh food
• At least 3 different types of toys
• Bird seed & pellet diet
• Calcium supplement such as cuttlebone, crushed oyster shells or calcium treat
• Treats such as millet spray
• Misting bottle & bird bath 

Vet Approved

Our Care Guides are designed to assist in general knowledge and requirements for the care of your new family member. We strongly encourage further research and consultation with your veterinarian on the complete and proper care of any new pet.

For more information visit petsuppliesplus.com, cdc.gov/healthypets or contact your veterinarian.

Always wash your hands before and after handling your pet or cleaning its habitat, and remember that any pet can scratch, bite or transmit disease to humans.

For pregnant women, persons with compromised immune systems, or if you have children under the age of 5, we strongly recommend contacting your physician prior to purchasing or caring for a new pet.

Please see the Centers for Disease Control website at www.cdc.gov/healthypets for more information.