Taking Care Of Your Pet Bird

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

First, make sure you're choosing a healthy bird that has been well cared for. Avoid purchasing an unhealthy or badly treated pet unless you have a lot of experience with the species and its health issues. Rehabilitating an ill bird is not easy. 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 They may seem unresponsive, withdrawn, tired, or tend to hide their heads under their wings.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 should not sneeze or have droppings on or around their tail 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 good sheen, a healthy appetite and plenty 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 tend to shy away from gentle handling. Remember that you should let the pros show you how to hold and touch your bird, however - most require somewhat gentle care.

Reputable stores and breeders are the best place to seek out a healthy, happy pet bird. Avoid chain pet stores or any place that looks like a bargain. Remember - your are purchasing a living animal, 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 or in poor health 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 were told at the store - trust the vet, as he or she has more experience.

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 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 veterinarian recommended diet closely, and don't try substituting cheaper foods or different ratios, as this can make your bird ill.

Likewise, avoid cedar, pine, and walnut shell bedding, as they can be dangerous for your bird. Change bedding often, and don't forget to socialize with your pet bird on an everday basis. Large birds like parrots need a lot of socialization, so think carefully about the one you choose.

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