There are several aspects of overall care that affect successful pet bird ownership.

Nutritional requirements are not the same for every type of bird. There are many commercially available diets and feeding plans that can be developed from a variety of foods accessible at most local grocery stores or pet shops. An avian veterinarian should be consulted on an adequate diet for the specific type of bird you have or are considering.

A pet bird’s surroundings should include the appropriate temperature, humidity, and lighting. Temperatures that are comfortable for the owner are usually adequate for a healthy pet bird and sudden changes in temperature should be avoided. A variety of humidity levels can be tolerated by pet birds; however, birds native to subtropical or tropical climates may need a little more humidity than is present in the owner’s home. This increase in humidity can be achieved by spraying the feathers with water, running a shower, or using a humidifier. Sunlight that is not filtered through glass and fresh air are benefits to a pet bird’s health, but a shaded area should also be available. Housing for a pet bird should include perches, food and water bowls, hygiene items, cage liners, and security. The size of the cage should be as large as can be accommodated in the owner’s home and at least wide enough to allow the bird room to spread its wings. Ideal perches are clean, replaceable, natural wood branches that are pesticide free and nontoxic. It may be necessary to have multiple, strategically placed perches available to accommodate the activity level of the bird. Newspapers, paper towels, and other plain liners are favored over wood chips, corn kernels, kitty litter, or sand for lining the cage so that the droppings may be clearly observed. Some birds also prefer a site for privacy, such as a paper bag, a towel, or a nest box. Daily cleaning of food and water bowls and the cage floor will alert the owner of any potential problems with the food or possible signs of illness. Thorough cleaning of the entire cage is recommended once a week.

Physical activity is essential for a healthy pet bird. Some species may be able to have supervised freedom from the cage or be allowed to fly around the home. Toys must be selected carefully as to not endanger the bird. Good chewable toys are branches, pine cones, rawhides, natural fiber ropes, and soft white pine.

Things to avoid include sandpaper covered perches; cigarette smoke; insecticides; toxic fumes from overheated Teflon-coated utensils; mite boxes or sprays; balsa wood toys; small link chain items; toys with metal clips, skewers, or lead weights; access to toxic house plants, ceiling fans, cats, dogs, or young children; cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated pine chips for cage lining.

For a healthy pet bird, minimal body care is necessary. Regular visits to an avian veterinarian are recommended in order to detect health problems early.

Adapted from: Basic Pet Bird Care, information provided by the Association of Avian Veterinarians (http://www.upatsix.com/aav/basic_care.htm#Avoid).