I was brought a male cockatiel tonight. (I help with rescue.)
The cockatiel was neglected for one but he was attacked by pet rats the pervious owner had. His face is mangled, but this poor baby isnt fear of humans.
I know letting him heal will help him, but does anyone have any ideas as to make his recovery an awesome one? I have him alone in a room all to himself, lots of treats, toys, you name it .. even got a nesting box for him, who knows? lol .. I put some fish in his room for visual effect, from expereince they seem to enjoy watching fish tanks. I have music playing too. (nature sounds)
I just really want him to recover well, he's already started plucking his own feathers. Could use any advice from someone who has dealt with this before. Thanks in advanced.
The first thing I would do is consult an avian vet for an expert opinion. If the wounds are fairly fresh, which I'm assuming they are, the bird may have an infection (from the rats) which could prove to be very serious.
pets question and answers,www.5d2d.com If you cannot make it to the vet, you should go to your local pet store and pick up something called the "avian first aid kit". All bird owners should have one in case of an accident. It has anything and everything you would need to care for your bird's injuries and help him heal faster.
Plucking his own feathers is natural, and he will do this. They will grow back, so you don't have to worry about that.
You should make sure the room you're keeping him in is warm. If he's in a stable condition, simply leave him alone to rest.
In addition, you should monitor him frequently to make sure his condition doesn't get worse. If it does, like if he goes into shock, or begins to bleed, you should take him to the vet immediately.
I hope this helps!
Edit: Oh, in that case, just make sure to monitor him. I think what you're already doing is making him comfortable. Keeping him in a warm, closed-off room with no windows is the best plan, since any passing car could startle him in the night. You can occasionally talk to him and give him attention (seeing as he's already socialized and likes human attention), and that will probably make him a little more comfortable.
Hello, I've rescued most of my birdies and I have a flock of 12.
pets question and answers,www.5d2d.com
One of my birds was an absolute terror when rescued. He would bike and scream and run whenever I came near. The key is to establish trust, slow, steady movements, keep him at your eye level when approached, use millet treats and speak soft and calm, gradually get him comfortable with you and if he shows fear back off a bit. ONe thing you can do is keep the cage partially covered so that he has a place to hide if he gets nervous. Keep the curtains drawn at night and maybe a nightlight on to help prevent a night-fright. good luck! you're on the right track
