Cockatiels: Seizures (Read Below)

After more careful observation I have realised that his behaviour is due to a bad seizure not a stroke as I had feared.

Uncontrollable head shaking is only the start & often accompanied by short chirps which can add to the confusion that these are not 'fluffies'.

It is a nervous reaction. There could be underlying problems such as diet etc but if these are ruled out, stress is the main culprit.

It could be something as obvious as a loud banging noise or as simple as not being able to find a favourite toy in it's usual location.

The nervous head tic may be accompanied by pacing as well as the short, staccatto chirps. Very distinctive once you learn what they mean.

Then the onset of a full out seizure. Wings flapping wildly (tumbling), frantic head shaking & hyperventilating. Bulging, blank staring eyes.

They can hurt themselves if not loosely restrained. Should NOT be tight. Just enough so their wings don't get damaged when thrashing & they are safe from falling.

For several hours following a seizure they may lose motor control. Climbing & even just standing on perches becomes a problem.

They can easily fall & of course this makes them panic even further. Paddy felt safe on the ladders & platforms but not his perches which is where his main food was.

Specifically located there so he regularly used the cement perches to keep his nails trimmed.

He had not suffered brain damage as I first suspected & lost memory. Rather he was just too scared to use the perch & reach his food. Causing further stress...

I have moved most food to his platforms until he regains his confidence. Unfortunately I do not know what induced this seizure in the first place 😔

I strongly recommend that ALL parrot cages should have platforms/ladders. They like them. It's their playroom. Plenty of space to fly outside their cages.

Especially older birds, those prone to night frights, seizures or disabilities greatly benefit. Not only reduces the chances of falling but if they do, a bouncy mesh is a safer option than hard flooring.

Once the stress cycle begins, sadly, it is unlikely your bird will ever be totally free from seizures. All you can do is try prevent them.

I am still using the chamomile tea which has really helped lessen the frequency of the seizures & which he now prefers over plain water.

I started on a very watered down version & watched for lethargy or any other adverse reactions. Then slowly increased the dose. He now drinks the equivalent to a teabag per cup, left to brew then diluted 1:1 with water.

Also note how the alarm going off in the background seems to immediately grab his attention, distracting him & calming him down. I have these going off several times a day. Different versions of wild birdsong.

Please do not use Tiel or budgie sounds as this often leads to agitation & could provoke the seizures.

VERY, VERY IMPORTANT! DO NOT, I REPEAT, DO NOT PANIC! Your bird can sense this & will only make things worse.

Hope all goes well & my experience helps you better understand your avian companion.