It is Bird Health Appreciation Week: How to Keep Your Pet Bird Healthy and Thriving!

It is Bird Health Appreciation Week: How to Keep Your Pet Bird Healthy and Thriving!

It is Bird Health Appreciation Week, and we are celebrating everything about our beloved feathered friends! There are many joys to having a pet bird in your home, from their colorful appearance to their delightful songs and, in the case of parrots, a few witty sayings. Here are three tips to help keep your bird happy, healthy, and thriving for many years to come.

Offer the Right Food

Unfortunately, malnutrition is common with pet birds. Contrary to popular belief, birds eat more than just seeds and need a balanced diet of carbohydrates, minerals, proteins, fats, and a consistently fresh, clean water source. Pellet food formulated specifically for your type of bird should make up 80% of your pet’s diet. These pellets are available in a variety of colors, sizes, and nutritional formulas.

The other 20% should come from seeds, fruits, greens, and vegetables that are thoroughly washed and cut into small pieces. Avoid lettuce and celery as they do not offer much nutrition. Never give your pet avocado, peanuts, fruit seeds or pits, as they can be toxic to birds.

To make sure your feathered friend is getting the food needed to thrive, schedule an annual health exam with your veterinarian.

Keep a Clean Cage

Dirty cages and bowls can cause health problems in birds. To reduce the risk of infection in your pet, follow these simple steps daily:

•       Replace the cage liner to remove droppings and any discarded food

•       Wash food and water bowls in a mild detergent

•       Wipe down all the cage surfaces with a damp rag and treat any stubborn messes with a cage cleaner

Once a month, clean the whole cage thoroughly with a scrub brush and a mild detergent. Be sure to rinse off all of the cleansers and dry it completely so your bird won’t get chilled when returned to the cage.

A clean, germ-free environment to live in can add years to your bird's life.

Watch for Signs

A healthy bird has a good appetite, loads of energy, bright eyes, and shiny feathers. If you notice your feathered friend showing any abnormal behavior, such as fluffed feathers, mottled appearance, or disinterest in eating, contact your veterinarian immediately. By the time your bird shows obvious signs of illness, a condition usually is already quite advanced. Never try to treat your bird’s symptoms yourself or give any medication without talking first to your vet. The safest treatments are always the ones prescribed specifically for your pet by your veterinarian.

We hope you enjoyed learning a few tips about avian health. All of the employees and doctors at the Pet Hospitals of Hawaii have the experience and expertise to take care of your bird’s needs. Our most important job is keeping all your pets healthy and happy.

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