Ultimate Guide To Bird Care

If you're thinking about a new feathered friend, there are a few things you should think about with regard to care. Of course, the specific care requirements will vary by age, species and variety. However, there are a few things that are true across the board when you adopt a bird. Here's how to get a pet that will be a great companion and how to care for him or her successfully.

First, make sure you're choosing a healthy bird that has been well cared for. Avoid picking an ill or badly treated animal unless you have a lot of experience with the species and its health problems. Rehabilitating a sick bird is not easy. Instead, if you encounter a pet store or breeder that looks 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 They may seem unresponsive, withdrawn, tired, or tend to hide their heads under their wings.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 should not sneeze or have droppings on or around their tail feathers, and there should be no sign of discharge near the nostrils.

A pet bird that only sits at the bottom of its cage is seriously ill. These are all big warning symptoms. Birds in good health will have bright eyes, clean feathers with a healthy sheen, a good appetite and plenty of energy.

The level to which your bird has been handled will also be important, as a badly socialized or poorly treated bird won't be a good pet. Look for pet birds that are friendly and inquisitive, not those that shy away from gentle handling. Remember that you should let the experts show you how to hold and touch your bird, however - most need relatively gentle care.

Reputable shops and breeders are the best location to seek out a healthy, happy pet bird. Avoid chain pet stores or any place that looks like a bargain. Remember - you're purchasing a living creature, not a decoration.

Once you've found a bird you know you want, you should take him or her to a vet who knows birds well to get a first checkup. You should be allowed to return a bird which is sick to any good 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 may be different from what you heard at the store - trust the vet, as he or she has more experience.

Your bird's new home should be the largest you can get 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 perche should be made from natural branches when possible, and out of safe woods. Remember to clean any branches brought in from outside. In addition, quarantine your new pet from other birds before introducing them, to prevent the spread of any problems you may not know about. Follow the vet suggested diet carefully, and do not try substituting cheaper foods or different percentages, as this can make your bird ill.

Likewise, avoid cedar, pine, and walnut shell bedding, as they can be unhealthy for your bird. Change bedding frequently, and don't forget to socialize with your bird on an everday basis. Big birds such as parrots will need quite a bit of socialization, so think carefully about the one you get.