Caring for a pet bird can be a wonderful experience, especially since birds can be raised to be very affectionate pets. However, being aware of proper bird care procedures is essential for keeping your bird happy, healthy and sufficiently entertained. Pet care for birds is not necessarily difficult, though does involve a small investment in time. In order to provide your pet bird with the proper care, you need to ensure that you can adequately cover all of your bird’s lifestyle needs. Here is a brief overview of how to provide care for your pet bird.
HOUSING
Unless you plan to keep your bird in a breeding aviary, you will probably select to purchase a cage for your bird. However, a common mistake among many pet bird owners is purchasing a cage that does not have enough room for their bird to exercise. The distance between all four sides of a bird cage must be more than three times the length of a bird’s wingspan. If you are keeping two birds in a single cage, it’s best that you double this estimation. Birds tend to develop behavioral problems if kept in a small cage, occasionally even succumbing to depression. If you are keeping a bird that has an oral fixation, it is best to purchase a metal cage to prevent damage to the cage from chewing. Be sure to clean your bird’s cage at least twice per week, in order to keep your pet bird’s living space sanitary.
FEEDING
Depending on the type of bird you are keeping, you will have to make allowances for your bird’s special dietary needs. It’s extremely important that you research the nutritional requirements of your bird before purchasing food, since some birds aren’t able to eat certain types of food. When in doubt, try purchasing breed-specific bird food formulas. For example, most pet care supply stores carry a special bird formula for parakeets. This food is formulated to provide sufficient nutrition for pet parakeets, though may not be appropriate for some other species of birds. When in doubt, you can always ask your local veterinarian for advice about your bird’s diet.
TOYS AND PLAYTIME
Many birds are extremely intelligent, and require constant mental stimulation. Since it’s impossible to actively provide interaction for your bird at all times, it’s best if you purchase interactive toys that will help to keep your bird entertained. Many birds love shiny toys, mirrors, beads and bells. However, if you have a larger species of bird, you may want to avoid purchasing small plastic toys, as they can pose a choking hazard if broken.
MEDICAL CARE
Most veterinary offices will be able to provide medical care for pet birds, though it is advised that you double-check with your veterinarian before bringing your bird home. If your bird requires emergency medical care, it’s essential that you are aware of any 24-hour veterinary hospitals in your area that are equipped to handle health emergencies in birds. If you have this knowledge beforehand, you will be much better prepared in the case of an emergency condition in your pet bird.