Owning a bird is quite different than other common household pets. They have different needs both physically and psychologically than their furry counterparts. Their beauty helps decorate a room and adds comforting noise to those who love them. Birds need proper nutrition, social interaction, daily activity and good hygiene to stay healthy.

Health

A healthy bird is a welcome sight with their pretty plumage and melodic chirps. However, if blood is seen on the cage floor, your pet could be sick. A bird can have parasites such as worms that should be treated. Shop for bird worming products online for side by side comparison.

Housing

Most birds in homes live in cages. Ideally, place your bird in the largest cage that comfortably fits inside your home. With more room to move around, birds can stretch their wings and move about with ease. Wider cages allow for stretching while height allows long-tailed birds more space. A cage should be sturdy and strong to prevent the bird from dismantling or bending the metal. Easy cleaning and nontoxic materials are additional housing considerations.

Activity

Birds are known for their activity and intelligence. Situating their cage near the busiest places of the homes allows the bird to participate in family activity meeting their psychological needs. Exercise allows your bird to stretch and remain healthy when confined for long periods of time. If possible, allow them access to fly about in the room, but be sure to close windows, doors and turn off ceiling fans.

Hygiene

Much like you benefit from a clean home, so does your bird. Cleaning food and water bowls regularly prevents them from eating tainted food or drinking soiled water. The cage floor should be regularly cleaned of droppings.

Cage Liners

Lining the cage makes cleaning it easier. While many owners have used chopped corn cobs, sand, wood chips and kitty litter, it is preferable to use plain cage liner paper such as newspapers. Plain paper allows you to see the number and appearance of droppings to help monitor the health of your bird.

Perches

Natural wood clean of pesticides or commercially bought perches offer a place for your bird to hang out. Replace them when they show signs of damage or wear. Agile climbers like multiple perches to move about. Species that hop or fly need space between their perches to move about with freedom. Ideally, perches are placed away from food and water bowls.

Nutrition

Most commercial bird feed for your species of birds helps them have the right diet. While you can make their food at home, it can be a tedious and time-consuming process. Contrary to popular belief, nuts and seeds should not be a regular part of their diet. A nutritionist can help you determine the exact food needs of your bird.

Grooming

Birds groom themselves during the molting season dislodging old feathers. Daily bathing is an enjoyment for many birds though their bathing preference can lend to a shower or bath. Daily misting is an option for those birds resistant to other forms of bathing. Some owners clip wings to aid in training and prevent birds from reaching their full flying capabilities. Trimming their nails is necessary when they become uncomfortable for the owners.

Security

Like people, birds need a place to retreat to inside their cage away from viewers. Having a place to go gives the bird a sense of privacy. Some birds may go further and use them as nesting cavities. Providing visual security by placing visual barriers outside the cage can help the bird feel secure.

When purchasing a bird consider the space you have available in your house for them. Speak to your vet about the best breed of bird to have for your family. Then you can craft a home that is suitable for your new pet.