Bringing a bird into your family is a great thing but a huge responsibility. It’s something that should not be taken lightly; as with any pet, birds have emotions too, and you have to treat them well for them to survive.
Different species of birds have different needs, but in general, here’s how to keep your birds happy.
Make sure your bird’s cage is large enough
The cage should give him plenty of room to fly/climb and or/jump around.
Provide toys
Most parrot-type birds enjoy chewing toys and puzzles. Try giving them different toys to see what kind your pet bird prefers. Also, make sure he has more toys available to play with at all times. Inspect the toys to check if there’s any damage or hazards (shard metal bits or frayed strings in which their toes can be tangled). There are more hazards out there to look out for, so always be alert.
Let your pet birds out of the cage every single day
The amount of time required when letting out your bird from its cage varies from bird to bird, but make sure to plan on a minimum of a couple of hours and several hours if you have larger and active birds. Some people let their birds roam free through the house at all times, which is a great thing, while they’re using the cage only for sleeping. But if you choose to do this, make sure that your house is free of hazards, and you must always watch where they will step to prevent them in harm’s way. Also, make sure you don’t have dogs and cats along with the house that may potentially harm your pet bird.
Keep their cage clean
Change the papers and spot clean every day. Give the cage and perches a good wipe down with unscented soap and water every week to keep it clean. Also, take out everything and clean the cage completely while disinfecting it at least once a month. Important Tip: We recommend that you use the Avian 3-in-1 Sanitiser as it will sterilise your bird’s cage.
Interact healthily with your bird
Healthy interaction with your bird is a great way to keep your bird active and happy. Especially if you have a bird that loves human interaction, make sure that you’re spending time with them. Talk to your bird, cuddle, whistle, and play games with him, etc. Also, just a tip, if your schedule doesn’t allow for much interaction time, you may consider getting another bird so your first bird won’t get lonely.
Be alert for any signs of stress and anxiety
Also, make sure that you’re watching your bird’s stress levels. Make sure to make them feel completely okay by checking him out at times. If you’re not entirely sure if they’re stressed, but you see some obvious signs, like screaming or plucking, then you have to consult a vet right away.
Provide them a balanced diet
This is an integral part of keeping your bird happy. At most times, a seed mix from a pet store isn’t enough. You have to incorporate formulated pellets, whole grains, and fruits & vegetables.
For more interesting facts and tips about handling your birds like this one, make sure to check out our page now.
FAQs
Pet Bird General Care
The right pet bird diet, a clean cage, fresh bird food and water, safe bird toys, exercise, and lots of attention are the basics. Pet bird cages should have plenty of space for activity and a grate to separate your pet bird from the substrate.
How to care for pet birds? ›
Pet Bird General Care
The right pet bird diet, a clean cage, fresh bird food and water, safe bird toys, exercise, and lots of attention are the basics. Pet bird cages should have plenty of space for activity and a grate to separate your pet bird from the substrate.
How do you make a bird feel better? ›
Nursing Care for Sick Pet Birds
- Give all medications as directed. ...
- Keep your pet bird warm. ...
- Do not change your bird's sleep cycle. ...
- Make sure your bird eats and drinks. ...
- Avoid stress. ...
- Sick birds should be placed in Isolation. ...
- Notify your physician if you become ill. ...
- Notify your veterinarian if your bird's condition worsens.
If you have a bird who doesn't like being handled but who you want to help become more social, offering it a stick or a perch to climb on may soothe it. Provide Stimulation. Challenge your bird with stimulating puzzle toys, a TV to watch, a radio to listen to, or something exciting that will maintain interest.
Can pet birds be happy? ›
It can take time for birds to start trusting you and get used to being touched and handled. However, once they are used to you and you have gained their trust, your bird can be a loyal and loving pet who enjoys spending time with you.
How do you keep birds healthy? ›
Keep in mind: prevention is the best medicine!
- Clean your feeders at least once a week to prevent the growth of bacteria and minimize the spread of diseases and parasites. ...
- Change birdbath water daily. ...
- Clean the area beneath your feeders. ...
- Change nectar every 3-5 days, cleaning the feeder between fillings.
Clean and disinfect your bird's cage thoroughly at least once a week. Give the cage a daily clean to ensure proper hygiene. Keep your bird indoors where they won't come into contact with wild birds. Make sure your bird has regular vet check-ups.
Do birds enjoy pets? ›
While some birds enjoy being pet just as much as a dog or cat it requires a different strategy to ensure a good experience. As with any pet, your avian vet will be able to provide you with tips and advice on caring for and interacting with your bird safely.
What calms birds? ›
Instead of talking to the bird, find ways to make him feel safe that don't involve human interaction. This can include playing soothing music or switching on the television. Of course, if you have a rapport with your bird already and they trust you, then talking to them is an effective way of lowering anxiety.
How do I give my bird the best life? ›
Provide an enriching cage, with ropes and ladders. Place the cage in an active part of your home. Place plenty of entertainment in the cage, such as perches and toys. Switch things out periodically, so your bird is sufficiently stimulated.
Provide plenty of toys.
Birds need at least one new toy a month. Toys are a necessity, not a luxury, for birds. Rotate toys regularly to keep them fresh and interesting for your bird and allow you time to clean them. Toys will help keep your bird entertained and happy.
Do pet birds love their owners? ›
Birds are phenomenal pets, and they can bond to their owners and live many, many years, especially some of the larger parrots. But it's not automatic. Birds don't just come into your house, love you, feel comfortable with you, and bond with you immediately. This bond is something that you have to work toward.
How do you know if your bird is unhappy? ›
Here are some common signs of stress in birds:
- Biting. While many people misinterpret birds' biting as an act of aggression, this behavior is often a sign of stress and fear. ...
- Vocalizing. ...
- Decreased Vocalization. ...
- Feather Picking. ...
- Self-Mutilation. ...
- Stereotypical Behaviors. ...
- Decreased Appetite.
Even just showing your hands in front of your bird is a beneficial step to continue to practice and will get the bird comfortable with your hands. While a good cuddle might be nice for you and your bird, it is a good idea to avoid excessive petting and to avoid petting the back and body of your bird.
