A pair of birds will make good company for each other. But, they may not bond as well with you or mimic speech and sounds. Keeping a single bird is fine, but you need to spend a significant amount of time interacting with the cockatiel daily. If your lifestyle makes this impossible, get a pair of birds to prevent loneliness and self-harming behavior.

These birds are naturally messy and they produce powdery dust on their feathers. It is used in grooming and may leave a powdery coating on cages and accessories. Bathe or spray your bird with water once a week. Regular cleaning of the cage is necessary. Many cockatiel cages come with a removable bottom tray to make the task easier.

Cockatiels are active and playful and should have a large cage. Provide a cage that is at least 20 inches square and 26 inches tall. The spacing on the cage bars should be no more than 3/4-inches wide. You do not want the bird to get its head caught in the cage. Horizontal cage bars offer the best opportunity for the bird to climb and get much-needed exercise. The cage should have enough space to place a couple of perches at different levels. The bird should be able to easily move between the perches.

Clip your cockatiel's wings and nails twice a year. You can do it yourself, but you must learn the proper method, or else it is very easy for these birds to bleed to death. If you're uncomfortable with this, an avian veterinarian or breeder can do it for you.

Cockatiels are subject to a few household dangers. Avoid placing the bird's cage in drafty areas or near the kitchen. Fumes from heated Teflon cookware can kill these birds.