How to care for and look after your bird or parrot

How to care for and look after your bird or parrot

Birds can be joyful companions to have in your home. They can brighten up your house as well as your day, with their colourful feathers and playful characters. But it’s also important to look after your pet properly, to keep them healthy and happy and be sure they’re covered on Parrot insurance to keep you in mind.

Birdcages

Birds come in all shapes and sizes, so it is important to find a cage that suits your bird. It needs to be the right size to give plenty of space for fun and space to spread its wings. Usually, the bigger the better. One thing you don’t consider if this is your first bird is you don’t want your bird to be able to escape through the gaps in the cage! You can even try your hand at making a birdcage.

Here are some cool ideas that will only take a lick of paint and some sprucing up;

• Using an old cabinet
• An old shed
• A table and glass domes
• An old wire lampshade

It’s also just as important to consider where your cage will go in your home. You want the cage somewhere that you spend a lot of your time so as to keep your feathered friends’ company – this is usually the living room of the home. Ultimately, it’s important to find somewhere that will make your bird feel safe and secure. Places close to human food like the kitchen are potentially hazardous and unhygienic so bare this in mind. Remember, other pets can initially feel like a threat.

Bird freedom

Set your friendly flyer free. Birds are meant to fly so it is extremely important to let your bird out of its cage occasionally. When doing so, be sure to clear the space of any hazards. This could include other pets or ceiling fans. The minimum time of letting your bird out of its cage varies from bird to bird. Here is a list of the amount of time each bird species needs outside of it’s cage;

• Budgies – up to 30 minutes a day
• Conures – up to 1 hour a day
• African grey – up to 3 hours a day
• Cockatoo – endless play time!

Here are 5 ways to bond with your bird.

Cage duties

Change the papers and wipe down the cage and perches daily to ensure your bird is clean and happy. Food and water dishes, and accessories such as birdbaths, should be washed in hot, soapy water and always dry them well. A thorough cleaning of the cage will be necessary weekly/monthly, depending on the size and how messy your bird is.

Playtime

Interact with your bird. Whistle, talk, play and cuddle. Show them the love they deserve!

If you spend a lot of your time out of the house, find a little toy friend for your bird. This will help to keep them company. You can teach and train your birds to do tricks much like dogs, teach them words and even how to sing along to songs!

Health checks

Make regular health checks to ensure good welfare. Things to check can include;

• body weight
• Amount of food and water consumed
• Behaviour
• Respiration
• Appearance of droppings