Perches
In the cage there should be perches of different materials and different diameters. It is important for chlorine and foot pads that the diameter be varied. Otherwise, slight pressure ulcers occur on the underside of the feet, and the bird is unable to grind its claws by itself. The pins should preferably be placed both across the cage and along the cage. The sticks should be cleaned daily!
Also, remember not to place the sticks above the food and water bowls.
Food and water bowls
The best cage design for food and water bowls allows the bowls to protrude outside the cage through a small window. The advantage of this construction is that the bird cannot contaminate the bowls. Use a water bowl rather than a water bottle. The design of the bottles often causes contamination to accumulate in the neck of the bottle. Food and water bowls should also be cleaned daily!The basis
The substrate on the cage base may consist of newsprint or paper towels. This is then easy to replace daily. Previously, it was always recommended that the bird cage's substrate be sand. This is so that the bird can pick up grains of sand to aid digestion. We now know that parrot birds, unlike chicken birds, do not need sand for digestion. On the contrary, it can often pose a risk of sand packing in the stomach or intestine.Important with lots of toys
A very neglected area in the cage interior is toys . Most birds get their cage decorated with two perches, a food and water bowl, a mirror and a bell. Then we expect the bird to thrive and stay busy! Remember, some scientists claim that our parrot birds have an intelligence equivalent to a child between 2-5 years. For example, how long would a 3-year-old keep himself occupied with a mirror and a bell without having mental problems !!!All parrot birds must be given a large assortment of toys. However, not all toys should be in the cage all the time. These should be varied often so that they are in the cage for a maximum of one week at a time. Exceptions can be made if the bird has an absolute favorite thing. In that case, it can always be in the cage, while other toys are varied. Many toys can be made yourself. Use wood, sticks, cones, leather ropes, ox skin (dog toys), cotton or hemp rope. And preferably fruits and vegetables. Wooden toys for children also often work well for birds. The basic rule is to think about varying the supply a lot. Used:
- Different colors.
- Various forms.
- Toys that give off sound.
- Toys to bite / tear.
- Edible toys.
- Toys to peel with the tongue on or manipulate with the feet.
In addition to a well-decorated cage, it is also advisable to have a climbing tree or playground for the bird to stay in the time when not staying in the cage. Diverse employment is also important in these places!
Hygiene is important in parrot management
Unfortunately, cleaning cages and cage furnishings is often a very neglected detail when it comes to how we care for our companion birds. Many pet owners are content with cleaning the cage once a week. In the worst case, food and water bowls are also rarely cleaned.Out in the wild, a bird rarely comes into contact with its droppings. In a small cage, the relationship is completely different. As the amount of spillage and food residues accumulate in the cage, the bacterial content in the bird's environment increases. As the stool dries, the bacteria become dispersed in the air around the bird and breathe in easily. Birds often sit and drill down heads and nostrils in food bowls. These often contain a mixture of old food and dried stools. There, the bird easily acquires a variety of bacteria and mold spores.
The cage must be cleaned daily. Remove the substrate material and reinsert. Clean food and water bowls, perches and other cage fittings. Once a week, the entire cage should also be wiped off from residue, feathers and other dirt. All details should also be disinfected at least once a month. For example, dilute chlorine or Hygisoft can be used. Rinse thoroughly afterwards.
Keep in mind that most of the infectious diseases that affect birds are caused by bacteria from the local environment!
Humidity
A healthy parrot can manage to live in our normal indoor environment. They can also stay outdoors during the summer. The biggest problem with our indoor environment is the dry air. Most parrot birds come from tropical or subtropical areas. They are created for a significantly higher humidity. Dry indoor air can lead to respiratory illnesses and spring problems. To create a more humid indoor environment you can- Get a humidifier.
- Have very green plants in the room.
- Put out small bowls of water here and there in the room.
- Showering
In addition, you should try to teach your bird to swim or showering. This should then be done daily. Some birds swim by themselves in a bird bath, a shallow bowl of water in. Other birds like to accompany the owner into the shower. Unfortunately, birds not trained to bathe or shower may be hysterically afraid of water. Then it is important to gently teach them to appreciate this. For example, you can use a flower spray sprayer set to the finest water vapor. Keep the syringe hidden so the bird does not see it. Spray so that the water vapor falls over the bird. Over time, you can increase the intensity of the "rain" and also show the bird syringe. Another way to trick the bird into showering may be to soak a salad head / cabbage head or the like in water. Then place or hang it on top of the cage. When the bird is biting and tearing into the vegetable, it simultaneously receives a natural shower.
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