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 6:
Learn2 Care for a Pet Bird (Continued)

Tend the bird

Caring for your bird properly will ensure a long and lasting relationship. One of the most important aspects of doing so is cleaning the cage regularly (at least once every two weeks). Use cold, soapy water with a mild bleach solution to disinfect it. Rinse thoroughly and let it dry before putting in the new tray lining and the bird. Wash the food dish at least twice a week with hot soapy water and rinse thoroughly. How often you'll need to add food will depend on your bird(s), but keep in mind its food dish may look full even when empty, because it will be filled with empty shells. Change the water daily.

Always be on the lookout for stress signs, such as feather plucking, loss of appetite or excessive shyness or aggression. It may be caused by the bird's external environment, bad health, or both. Never punish a bird for stressed behavior--this will only make it worse.

If you're going to let your bird out of the cage, make sure all windows and doors are closed, and that there's no access to toxic or dangerous objects such as glues, paints, stovetops, fans, wire mesh, and so on. You should also be in the room with the bird at all times when it's out.

If you want to train your bird, the rules are the same as training any animal: be patient but firm, use positive reinforcement, and keep a regular, repetitive training schedule.
Also remember that although the bird will become very attached to you, it may not extend that courtesy to every visitor (and might get downright hostile to a roomful of visitors).

Finally, if you want to introduce a new bird, ask your vet, pet store merchant, or breeder about the best way to do so.

The companionship of a bird can be an extraordinary thing that will only deepen over time. You'll get to know all the facets of its personality, quirks, and moods, and it will get to know yours. So get ready--it's time to take off on an avian adventure.

-end-