Expert: Cynthia Kiesewetter - 11/4/2008

Question
QUESTION: My Cockatiel is normally a well behaved, loving bird; whistling, singing, talking, kissing, etc... we give him free reign over the cage, and house.  In the last few days, he has become aggressive toward my husband and my self.  He attacks us. We've had to cage him up and close the cage door.  He likes one of the cats, and I am almost thinking he wants to mate with one of the cats... because this stems back a few months ago when he was aggressive and attached after he was trying to get the attention of the cat. However, this time, he is dangerously aggressive... also, he's taking on characteristics not normally there! Yet, he will act like he wants out of the cage, and he will be calm as long as we do not go near him.

ANSWER: Robin,

First, I'm sorry that it took me so long to answer your question.  I had a series of family issues which took me away from the computer for a while.

I find that if a cockatiel has free reign over the cage and the house, he begins to act as if he is the leader of the flock.  The first thing I would do is get his wings clipped by a professional, such as an avian vet's office.  Then I would only let him out when the cats are out of the area.  If he continues to act up, I would work with him doing the ladder...that is, placing your index finger against his chest and forcing him up on your finger, then placing your other index finger against his chest.  Just continue doing this until he knows you are in control.

Good luck,

Cindy

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Cindy,
Thank you for your follow-up:
I found out the Cat Pheromone plug-in was making the bird toxic.  We placed the bird inside the cage, closed the cage door, and isolated him.  After unplugging the air device, the bird started to calm down, but still has some tension and stress.  I was also told by another bird person to get the wings clipped as to take away some cockiness and aggression the bird has been showing, as well as making sure JT has at least 12 hrs sleep during the winter months.  We were informed not to put a mirror inside the cage as it tends to promote the bird hormones.
JT is starting to act normal again, but still shows signs of aggression and stress.


Answer
Robin,

Thanks for the follow-up.  I've never heard of Cat Pheromone plug-ins, but I don't own cats so that's a really interesting theory!  In any event, any addition to the air can affect a bird's respiratory system, so it is best to remove things like that.

Definitely remove the mirror; I didn't realize you had one.  Mirrors give a bird a sense of a mate inside the cage, and it increases their territorial and protective instincts.

Cockatiels should have 12 hours of sleep all year long, not just during the winter.  A dark cover with a nightlight somewhere near the bottom of the cage will help with sleep and night frights.

Good luck!

Cindy