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 specific care requirements will vary by age, species and variety. However, there are a couple of things that are true across the board when you get a pet bird. Here's how to obtain a pet that'll be an awesome companion and how to care for it with great success.
First, make sure you're choosing a healthy bird that has been well cared for. Avoid picking an sick or badly treated animal unless you have a lot of experience with the species and its health problems. 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.
Unhealthy birds may seem 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 They may seem unresponsive, withdrawn, tired, or tend to hide their heads under their wings.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 pet bird that just sits on the bottom of the cage, instead of the perch, is ill. These are all big warning indicators. 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 shy away from careful handling. Remember that you should let the pros show you how to hold and touch your bird, however - most need relatively gentle care.
Reputable shops and breeders are the best place to seek out a healthy, happy pet bird. Stay away from chain bird stores or any place that looks like a bargain. Remember - your are getting 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 is knowledgeable about birds well in order to get that 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 heard at the store - trust the vet, as he or she has more training.
Your bird's new housing should be the biggest you can use in your home, but with bar spacing that your new bird can't squeeze 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 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 recommended diet closely, and don't try substituting cheaper foods or different percentages, 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 regularly, and don't forget to socialize with your bird on an everday basis. Large birds like parrots need a lot of socialization, so think carefully about the one you choose.