How To Care For Your Bird
Posted by GuestW on Apr 16, 2009 in Birds • No commentsIf you're considering a new feathered friend, there are a some things you might want to think about in terms of care. Of course, the specific care requirements will vary by age, species and variety. However, there are a couple of things that are true across the board when you get a pet bird. Here's how to obtain a pet that'll be an awesome companion and how to care for it with great success.
First off, make certain you are choosing a healthy bird that has been well cared for. Avoid buying an ill or badly treated animal unless you have some experience with the species and its health issues. Rehabbing a sick bird is no easy task. Instead, if you encounter a pet store or breeder that seems to have a lot of unhealthy animals, consider calling a local animal welfare organization for help.
Sick birds may appear fluffy or ruffled. They may seem unresponsive, withdrawn, tired, or tend to hide their heads under their wings. Birds shouldn't sneeze or have droppings on or around their feathers, and there should be no sign of discharge near the nostrils.
A bird that just sits at the bottom of its cage, instead of on the perch, is seriously ill. These are all big warning symptoms. Healthy birds will have bright eyes, clean feathers with a quality sheen, a healthy appetite and a lot of of energy.
The degree to which your bird has been handled will also be important, as a poorly socialized or badly treated bird will never be a good pet. Look for birds that are friendly and curious, not those that shy away from careful handling. Remember that you should let the pros show you how to handle and touch your bird, however - most require relatively gentle care.
Reputable stores and breeders are the best place to look for a healthy, happy pet bird. Stay away from chain pet stores or any place that looks like a bargain. Remember - you're buying a living animal, not a decoration.
Once you've found a bird you know you desire, you should take him or her to a vet who knows birds well in order to get that first checkup. You ought to be allowed to return a bird which is in poor health to any reliable pet store. It also helps your vet learn what your pet is like when he or she is in good health, and lets you build a relationship with them.
Your vet can tell you a lot about what to feed your new pet, how to care for him or her, what medical needs are likely and what training is appropriate. This could be different from what you heard at the store - trust the vet, as he or she has more training.
Your bird's new housing should be the largest you can manage in your home, but with bar spacing that your new pet can't fit through. It’s fine to try and find cheap bird cages, but don’t cut corners when it comes to your new pet. There are plenty of bird cages for sale at very reasonable prices.
The perch should be made of natural wood branches when possible, and out of safe woods. Remember to clean any branches brought in from outside. Also, quarantine your new pet from other birds before introducing them, to prevent the spread of any issues you may not be aware of. Follow the veterinarian recommended diet carefully, and do not try substituting cheap foods or different percentages, as this can make your bird sick.
Likewise, avoid cedar, pine, and walnut shell bedding, as they can be dangerous for your bird. Change bedding regularly, and remember to socialize with your bird on a daily basis. Big birds such as parrots will need quite a bit of socialization, so think carefully about the one you get.
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