Arthritic Cockatiel

[Weesha]

Hello all. I'm Jacqlynn. I have a ten year old cockatiel named Dolly who has arthritis and can't climb much anymore. I'm here looking for ideas to better accommodate her.

 

[Kiwi's Dad]

Welcome, Jacqlynn! I would lower everything thing on the cage so it’s close to the floor. Hopefully other members can help more.

 

[Xoetix]

Hello and welcome!! I would try posting in the Toys and Cages thread - I’m sure someone has amazing ideas.

Actually another member just posted about their cockatiel turning 33 years old, and someone suggested a critter nation. They’re horizontal and have a large door, that might help.

 

[Shannan]

I had an African gray with arthritis and we adapted his cage so he could easily get around. I used a lot of flat perches which I stair stepped so he could use them as stairs to get higher in his cage as well as perches that were wrapped in vet wrap. Additionally I removed the grate from the bottom and lined his cage with a heavy layer of paper towels (which meant I cleaned his cage several times a day) but it allowed him a lot of movement and was easy on his arthritic feet. I lowered his toys so he could play with them while standing on the ground.

 

[zERo/]

Something I've started doing for my 12-13 y/o cockatiel male rescue, other than making things easier for him to get to, is adding 1-2 tsp. of organic apple cider vinegar into his 10oz. bowl of water, it's said to help with arthritis.

 

[sunnysmom]

You can look for a flight cage which is longer instead of higher. Add some rope comfy feet and platform perches. Has she been to a vet for medication? I also like senior nutriberries as they have glucosamine and other supplements in it. I also give my senior tiel Healthy Bird from Christine's Chop Shop. It has turmeric, etc in it.

 

[Tyrion]

 

[Codyyjohns]

Hi! Welcome to the Ave
A Single Critter Nation would be great for your bird! All the bars are horizontal for easy climbing and the dimensions of a single unit are 36”x24”x24”

I keep my boys (cockatiels) in a triple tall currently with no separation so it is 36”x24”x72” of flight and play space

 

[expressmailtome]

Welcome, and enjoy the site!