Thinking about getting a pet bird? Birds make fun and affectionate pets, but they also require plenty of attention and dedication. They also have needs that many new bird owners are not aware of. Read on to learn how to take care of pet birds.
Birds may seem like easy pets as they spend much of their time in a cage, but the truth is that they require as much maintenance as a dog, cat or any other complex, social animal. Before taking the big step of buying a bird, be sure that you are ready to devote plenty of time and lots of love to this delicate, intelligent creature.
Step 1: Set Up Your Cage
- Choose a cage should that is at least large enough for the bird to spread his/her wings completely and flap without touching anything
- Keep the cage in a warm indoor area, free of drafts and direct sunlight
- Set up perches and/or ladders for climbing
- Set up at least one food bowl, water bowl, and bathing bowl (do not place directly under perches, where they may be tainted by droppings)
- Set up a variety of toys and treats
- Make sure that the cage is not overly cluttered, and there is plenty of room for the bird to climb and hop around comfortablyhttp://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/rabbit_horse_and_other_pet_care/caring_for_your_pet_bird.html
Step 2: Food and Maintenance
Once your cage has been set up, you need to keep it clean. Birds produce droppings regularly, so you will need to place newspaper at the floor of the cage, and change it daily.
- There are a variety of bird foods on the market, including mixes, pellets and seeds. You may choose one or more of these as staples, but diets should also be supplemented by fruits and vegetables, mineral supplements (such as cuttlebones), and grit (to aid digestion). http://animal-world.com/encyclo/birds/information/birdcare.htm
Step 3: Socialize and Play
Of course, there is much more to pet ownership than just providing a home and food. Birds are highly intelligent animals, and need social stimulation. Set aside time every day to play with your bird. Talk to him or her, offer a head scratch, and just play and enjoy each other's company.
- Your bird will also appreciate it if you open the cage door for a while, and let her/him fly around. Just make sure that you do this in a safe area, with no open doors or windows, no flames or hot burners, and no cats, dogs or other predatory pets.
