Intro:
Before you begin
Step 1:
Choose the bird
Step 2:
Choose the cage
Step 3:
Choose the accessories
Step 4:
Assess the bird
Step 5:
Set up the cage
Step 6:
Tend the bird

2torial #0417 - Step 3:
Learn2 Care for a Pet Bird (Continued)

Choose the accessories

Accessories, like the cage, depend on the type of bird. Here are the basics:

Toys. A bored bird is an unhealthy bird, so provide a variety of playtime items. Make your choices according to your bird's size. Some may like bells, chewable rawhide, or a piece of carpet they can methodically pluck apart. Avoid toys with parts that might entangle the bird, such as long strands of cotton or nylon, or hooks. There shouldn't be more than two or three items in a cage at once. Rotate them every week or so.

Food. Provide a variety of packaged food and home cooked recipes. Ask a pet store merchant, a breeder, or a vet for options.

Seed tray and water bottle. The cage usually comes with these items, but if it doesn't, you can buy attachable models.

Cage cover. You can buy a fitted cover, but a blanket or sheet will work fine. Shy birds often like part of their cage covered for a better sense of security. Covers also help birds sleep more soundly, and provide extra warmth.

Tray lining. Birds are not too discriminating in their bathroom habits--if it's below them, it's fair game. You can line the tray with gravel paper, wood shavings, processed corncobs, or (probably the cheapest option) newspaper. If you do use newspaper, make sure the print is soy-based ink, which is non-toxic (90 percent of U.S. papers use soy-based ink).

Beak conditioners. Birds like to keep their beaks sharp and clean. You can buy conditioners (like a hanging cuttlebone) to help them out.

Optional accessories include:

Bird baths. You can find versions that fill with water and attach to the side of the cage, or use a conditioning bath spray that you apply.

Seed guards. These are usually a fine net that wraps around the bottom half of the cage, so seeds and other debris can't be kicked out.

Claw clippers. Larger birds will usually need their claws clipped to keep their feet healthy, and to keep their grip friendly. A vet can do this if you don't want to.

Pest repellent. Pet stores sell hanging repellents or sprays to keep mites and lice away.

Vitamin supplements. Add these to your bird's water or food.

Nesting material. Certain smaller species, like canaries and finches, like to build themselves nests. You can buy packaged stands and materials, or find out what they like and provide it on your own.

Treats. These are particularly helpful if you want to train your bird.

Travel cage. This is useful not just for long trips, but also for vet checkups and cage cleanings.