Basic Care & Bird-Sense

Your bird depends on you for its every need.  It is your responsibility to provide a good home for your pet.  Doing so will enrich your bird’s life and in turn, your bird will enrich your life.

Find A Qualified Avian Veterinarian

Birds tend to hide it when they are sick.  If, at any time, you feel that your bird is acting strange, i.e., less active or less vocal, be sure to visit your vet before it is too late.

Dangerous Household Items

A bird’s respiratory system is very sensitive and delicate.  Be careful of products that can emit fumes or scents into the air.  Overheated Teflon-coated appliances and cookware, scented candles, perfumes, and air fresheners have been known to cause health problems and even death to birds.

Be aware of which plants and foods are poisonous to your bird.  Make your bird’s home environment a safe place for him/her to live.  Birds love to play and investigate new things; do not leave your bird out of the cage unsupervised.  A bird can easily chew through an electrical cord and other items if left alone.

Diet

A healthy diet for a bird should be higher in vitamins and nutrients than fat.  Birds should be eating vegetables, fruit, pasta, beans, grains, sprouted seeds, and/or pellets, along with their seed and nuts.  Variety is the key to a healthy diet.  Avocados, alcohol, chocolate and caffeine are potentially toxic to birds.

Physical Activity

Your bird needs both physical exercise and mental stimulation.  Allow your bird time out of the cage every day to exercise his/her wings, climb, play, or just get a change of scenery.