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5 Things to Know When Considering Getting a Pet Bird

Jul 29, 2022 | Uncategorized

Beautiful Little Parrot Birds Standing On Woman Hand. Asian Teen

 

What to Know About Owning a Bird

 

Pets are an excellent source of joy, but owning one can also come with an array of responsibilities. For instance, owning a bird might seem like an exciting and entertaining addition to a household, but there are many things that people should be aware of before purchasing or adopting one. The best birds to have as pets are the ones that fit your lifestyle. The following five facts will help you better understand the realities you’ll face owning a bird and what it will take to care for one. 

 

  1. Birds have different needs than other pets. Birds need more space than a dog or cat because they need room for flight and exercise. Birds need space to move around and play. If you have an indoor cage for your bird, you will need enough room for it to exercise its wings every day in order to keep them strong and healthy. You should also have at least one more cage available so that you can isolate your bird from other birds if necessary (i.e., if there is an illness). If you plan on having multiple birds then be sure that they each have their own cage so they don’t get jealous or stressed out over who gets most of your attention! They also require special diets, housing, and vet visits. To stay healthy, birds need to eat a nutritious diet high in fresh fruits, vegetables, seeds, and other foods. Consult your trusted veterinarian. If you aren’t able to provide these things, you may want to reconsider bird ownership
  2. Birds are notoriously early risers. Birds are very active during the morning hours. If you don’t cover their cages with a light-blocking fabric, they’ll wake up with the sun and get hungry. You should feed them at least twice a day, and preferably three times. Make sure to give them fresh food and clean drinking water every time you visit. Birds also like to interact with other birds, so try to spend some time with them each day.
  3. Birds require daily interaction and attention, so they cannot be left alone for long periods of time without going bonkers from boredom. Birds are very social creatures who need to interact with their owners or other birds on a regular basis in order to remain healthy and happy. Feeding, playing, and talking are important parts of owning a bird. You will also need to spend time cleaning up after them since they cannot do this themselves.
  4. Birds need regular grooming and bathing. Many species of pet birds have preening glands that release oil throughout their feathers, which helps keep them waterproofed and protects against disease-causing bacteria. This oil can build up on the feathers if it isn’t regularly cleaned off with water or oil-removing products that are safe for use around birds (never use bleach!). If your bird’s feathers aren’t properly maintained, they may begin to fall out and cause serious health problems for your bird. Your veterinarian can recommend the best products for your particular species of bird and show you proper grooming techniques.
  5. Birds need a good avian veterinarian. We recommend a thorough diagnostic examination when you get a bird, as well as annual wellness checks for the rest of your bird’s life.

 

Best Pet Birds for Beginners

 

If you’re new to bird ownership, you might find yourself wondering how to choose the right bird for your household. There are many different species of birds, and each one has its own unique personality. The best pet birds for beginners are those that are easy to care for, but also entertaining and sociable. Here’s our list of the top five best beginner pet birds:

  • Budgie
  • Finch
  • Cockatiel
  • Dove/Pigeon
  • Lovebird

 

Quiet Birds as Pets

 

Budgies, canaries, and finches are among the most popular birds. You might be surprised to learn that they are all relatively quiet birds. Some larger birds like parrots and cockatoos can be loud, but even they can be trained to be quiet when they’re not being handled or played with. 

It’s also important to remember that some birds can be quieter than others depending on their personalities. Some birds may just be more reserved than others, while others may actively avoid human contact and keep quiet even when they are being petted or played with by their owners.

These breeds are generally a lot quieter than others, so they are great for beginners:

  • Budgie
  • Finch
  • Parrotlet

 

Finally, remember that birds can live for a long time, so be prepared for the commitment. Some breeds can live for decades, so if you’re looking for a lifetime companion, owning a bird might be right for you. With good care and attention, you’ll spend many happy years together! Find an avian specialist for your bird at AZPetVet animal hospitals. Click here to find AZPetVet locations that provide avian care.

Disclaimer: Not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinarian advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding the medical condition of your pet. If you think your pet has a medical emergency, call or visit your veterinarian or your local veterinary emergency hospital immediately.