health issues for elderly

Question
My mother, 81 with heart and breathing problems, allows her cockatiel to fly the house and leave droppings everywhere including her shoulder. It eats at the kitchen table. Are there health issues that she should be aware of?

Answer
Hello Marilynn and thank you for your question,

I personaly know of a lady who breeds small birds who lives just like your mother, she has birds flying all over and one never really gets off her shoulder... that one eats from the table as well! I personly think thou having bird droppings all over and having the bird eat with you isnt a really great idea just because the birds are produce feather dust and that isnt a wonderufl thing to have in yuoer dinner plate if the bird should shake also if the bird is pooing on the table its not a great idea just because its really unsanitery... puticulry also you'd have to be very sure you hadn't cleaned up dropping/touched them by accident before eating without washing your hands... just incase, Since you say she has breathing problems..... I'd be careful with cockatiel feather dust they are very dusty just like cockatoos to whom they are related... I deffinitly reccomend the bird not sleeping in her room if he is now. If I can help with anything else feel free to ask.

Tara.