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 detailed care requirements will range by age, species and variety. However, there are a couple of things that are accurate across the board when you adopt a pet 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 buying an unhealthy or badly treated pet unless you have some experience with the species and its health issues. Rehabbing a sick bird is no easy task. 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 They may seem unresponsive, withdrawn, sluggish, or tend to hide their heads under their wings.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 level to which your pet bird has been handled will also be of importance, as a badly socialized or poorly treated bird won't be a good pet. Look for birds that are friendly and inquisitive, not those that shy away from gentle handling. Remember that you should let the professionals show you how to hold and touch your bird, however - most require somewhat gentle care.
Reputable stores and breeders are the best place to look for a healthy, happy pet bird. Avoid chain pet stores or any place that looks like a bargain. Remember - your are purchasing a live 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 ought to be allowed to exchange a bird which is unhealthy to any reliable 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 could be different from what you were told at the shop - 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 perch should be made of natural wood branches when possible, and out of safe woods. Remember to clean any branches obtained 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 suggested diet carefully, and don't try substituting cheaper foods or different percentages, as this can make your bird ill.
Likewise, avoid pine bedding, cedar, and walnut shell bedding, as all can be dangerous for your pet bird. Change bedding regularly, and remember to socialize with your bird on a daily basis. Big birds like parrots need quite a bit of socialization, so think carefully about the one you get.
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