How to Check the Health of My Cockatoos
As with other species of parrots and other pets, cockatoos are prone to health issues if they are not cared for properly. And as always, prevention is the best medicine. Checking the health of your cockatoo on a regular basis can ensure that your feathered friend is around for years to come. And cockatoos have a very long lifespan, with some species living as long as 85 years. So make the most of those years by ensuring that your cockatoo remains healthy.
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Instructions
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Know your cockatoo and spend time with her every day. The more accustomed you are to simple things like how her body feels under your hands, how she reacts to your presence and how she normally behaves will make you more receptive to times when she does not feel or behave as she usually does. When you know your cockatoo well, and feel that something is not quite right, it's a red flag that should not be ignored as it likely indicates a health issue.
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Know the warning sings that indicate a health issue for your cockatoo. Be alert for signs such as abnormal droppings, bad breath, cold feet, drowsiness, lethargy, weight loss, breathing difficulties, changes in feather condition, coughing, sneezing, nostril or eye discharge, swollen or crusty eyelids, cloudy or bulging eyes, neurological symptoms such as paralysis or seizures, crust or unusual growth around the beak, or swollen joints or other irregularities concerning the wings, legs and toes. Sitting fluffed up for an unusual length of time or holding wings differently are other indications of possible health problems.
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Take your cockatoo to a veterinarian who specializes in parrots for regular checkups and as soon as you suspect your cockatoo might have a health issue. Parrots are exotic animals, and their wild instincts are still ingrained in them, so if they are feeling ill, they will try to hide it as long as possible. This is why you must be as receptive as possible, because when you notice that your cockatoo is not feeling well, it is likely that she has not been feeling well for a while. Never delay in taking your parrot to your veterinarian for treatment. It may mean the difference between life and death.
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References
- Photo Credit goffin's cockatoo with dollar bill image by Xavier MARCHANT from Fotolia.com
