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COCKATIEL BASICS
· Choose wide cages. Cockatiels spend their time at the top of a cage, so width is more important than height. Offer these birds room to move about.
· Feed a formulated diet. Cockatiels thrive on a formulated diet. To offer variety to a cockatiel and a chance for interaction with the owner, a cockatiel's diet can be supplemented with fresh vegetables. Cockatiels are less likely to eat fruit than other birds.
· Introduce young cockatiels to a varied diet. Since cockatiels easily become accustomed to a single diet, encourage youngsters to sample a variety of formulated diets, vegetables, some fruit like apples and pears, citrus, warm rice and pasta, scrambled egg and so on. Seeds are high in fat and appropriate as treats rather than part of their regular diet.
· Bathe cockatiels regularly. Cockatiels are dusty, and regular baths help alleviate the dust. This is especially appreciated during hot weather.
· Provide toys. These inquisitive birds need a toy basket or a set of toys that can be rotated every week or two to stimulate their attention.
· Provide socialization. Cockatiels can learn the "up" command for boarding a pet owner's hand and can learn to be friendly with people.
· Provide clean, fresh water regularly. Cockatiels can learn to drink from a water bottle or a bowl.
· Offer plenty of interactions. Cockatiels are social and affectionate birds. They need time with the family, so providing a movable playpen or T-stand is encouraged.