Difference between revisions of "Make a Safe Environment for Your Pet Bird"
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== Steps == | == Steps == | ||
===Providing a Safe Cage=== | ===Providing a Safe Cage=== | ||
| − | #Make sure the cage is large enough. It should be at least 1.5 times your bird’s adult wingspan in width, depth, and height, so as to allow your bird to move freely.<ref name="rf1">http://www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/whatsnew/article.cfm?id=2945</ref> Bigger is even better. For a list of suggested cage sizes by bird, see [http://www.bird-cage.com/how-to-select-a-bird-cage bird-cage.com]. In general:< | + | #Make sure the cage is large enough. It should be at least 1.5 times your bird’s adult wingspan in width, depth, and height, so as to allow your bird to move freely.<ref name="rf1">http://www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/whatsnew/article.cfm?id=2945</ref> Bigger is even better. For a list of suggested cage sizes by bird, see [http://www.bird-cage.com/how-to-select-a-bird-cage bird-cage.com]. In general:<ref>http://kb.rspca.org.au/what-size-cage-does-my-pet-bird-need_409.html</ref> |
#*The minimum height should be 3 times the length from head to tail of the bird. | #*The minimum height should be 3 times the length from head to tail of the bird. | ||
#*There should be at least 2 wing beats between perches. | #*There should be at least 2 wing beats between perches. | ||
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#*Save time by having two sets of toys and perches and even two cages, so that your bird can be comfortable in one while you clean the other. | #*Save time by having two sets of toys and perches and even two cages, so that your bird can be comfortable in one while you clean the other. | ||
#Remember to always use a bird-safe disinfectant. You can buy one at your pet shop, or make your own, following one of these recipes: | #Remember to always use a bird-safe disinfectant. You can buy one at your pet shop, or make your own, following one of these recipes: | ||
| − | #*Mix 3 cups of hot water, 3 tablespoons of baking soda, and 3 tablespoons of lemon juice in a spray bottle.< | + | #*Mix 3 cups of hot water, 3 tablespoons of baking soda, and 3 tablespoons of lemon juice in a spray bottle.<ref>http://pet-birds.yoexpert.com/home-and-garden-pet-birds-health/what-is-the-most-effective-way-to-clean-a-bird-cag-378.html</ref> |
#*Mix 1 cup of distilled vinegar and 1 gallon of water.<ref name="rf7">http://www.birdtricks.com/blog/safe-cleaning-solutions-to-use-around-birds/</ref> | #*Mix 1 cup of distilled vinegar and 1 gallon of water.<ref name="rf7">http://www.birdtricks.com/blog/safe-cleaning-solutions-to-use-around-birds/</ref> | ||
#Clean food and water dishes and keep them away from your bird’s droppings. Your bird’s dishes should be cleaned daily with hot soapy water or in the dishwasher. Do not locate them under perches, where they will be contaminated with bird droppings.<ref name="rf3" /> Be sure food dishes are completely dry before returning them to the cage, as wet food pellets can mold quickly. | #Clean food and water dishes and keep them away from your bird’s droppings. Your bird’s dishes should be cleaned daily with hot soapy water or in the dishwasher. Do not locate them under perches, where they will be contaminated with bird droppings.<ref name="rf3" /> Be sure food dishes are completely dry before returning them to the cage, as wet food pellets can mold quickly. | ||
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===Putting Your Bird’s Cage in a Safe Place=== | ===Putting Your Bird’s Cage in a Safe Place=== | ||
#Do not place your bird’s cage in the kitchen or bathroom. The temperature fluctuates too much in kitchens, and cooking can produce fumes toxic to birds. Bathrooms also feature dangerous heat fluctuations, particularly during showers, as well as toxic chemicals from hairsprays and other grooming products.<ref name="rf8">http://www.hartz.com/Birds/Habitat/Putting_Your_Birdcage_in_the_Right_Place.aspx</ref> | #Do not place your bird’s cage in the kitchen or bathroom. The temperature fluctuates too much in kitchens, and cooking can produce fumes toxic to birds. Bathrooms also feature dangerous heat fluctuations, particularly during showers, as well as toxic chemicals from hairsprays and other grooming products.<ref name="rf8">http://www.hartz.com/Birds/Habitat/Putting_Your_Birdcage_in_the_Right_Place.aspx</ref> | ||
| − | #Keep the level of human interaction appropriate to your bird. For all birds, you’ll want to avoid areas with a lot of traffic and noise, as this can make your bird anxious.< | + | #Keep the level of human interaction appropriate to your bird. For all birds, you’ll want to avoid areas with a lot of traffic and noise, as this can make your bird anxious.<ref> http://www.hartz.com/Birds/Habitat/Putting_Your_Birdcage_in_the_Right_Place.aspx</ref> Beyond that, you’ll need to select an area that fits your bird. If your bird loves attention, then place it in an area with more activity. Less social birds will be happier in quiet areas of your home.<ref name="rf3" /><ref name="rf9"> http://www.uvma.org/birds/</ref> |
#*More social birds: Amazon parrots, lovebirds, lorikeets, conures, African greys, cockatoos, macaws | #*More social birds: Amazon parrots, lovebirds, lorikeets, conures, African greys, cockatoos, macaws | ||
#*Medium social birds: budgies, parakeets, cockatiels, pionus, quaker parakeets | #*Medium social birds: budgies, parakeets, cockatiels, pionus, quaker parakeets | ||
#*Less social birds: finches, canaries, doves | #*Less social birds: finches, canaries, doves | ||
| − | #Put your bird near walls and away from windows. The ideal place to put your bird’s cage is in a corner, but having at least one side of your bird’s cage against a wall will give it a sense of security. Don’t put your bird’s cage in front of a window, as this produces dangerous temperature fluctuations, and dogs, hawks, and storms outside the window can frighten your bird.<ref name=" | + | #Put your bird near walls and away from windows. The ideal place to put your bird’s cage is in a corner, but having at least one side of your bird’s cage against a wall will give it a sense of security. Don’t put your bird’s cage in front of a window, as this produces dangerous temperature fluctuations, and dogs, hawks, and storms outside the window can frighten your bird.<ref name="rf18" /> |
#Place your bird’s cage at your chest level. Birds become anxious when placed too low. Placing them too high can lead to behavior problems, as height is associated with superiority for birds.<ref name="rf3" /> | #Place your bird’s cage at your chest level. Birds become anxious when placed too low. Placing them too high can lead to behavior problems, as height is associated with superiority for birds.<ref name="rf3" /> | ||
#Avoid heat or air conditioning vents. Birds are sensitive to sudden temperature changes, so keep your home at a constant temperature and be sure your bird’s cage is not in the draft of a heat or air conditioning vent.<ref name="rf1" /> | #Avoid heat or air conditioning vents. Birds are sensitive to sudden temperature changes, so keep your home at a constant temperature and be sure your bird’s cage is not in the draft of a heat or air conditioning vent.<ref name="rf1" /> | ||
| − | #Keep poisonous plants away from your bird’s cage. Plants like oleanders, azaleas, poinsettias, philodendron, ivy, African violets, tulips, daffodils, and hydrangeas are all naturally toxic to birds and should be kept far from your bird’s cage.<ref name=" | + | #Keep poisonous plants away from your bird’s cage. Plants like oleanders, azaleas, poinsettias, philodendron, ivy, African violets, tulips, daffodils, and hydrangeas are all naturally toxic to birds and should be kept far from your bird’s cage.<ref name="rf18" /> For a complete list of safe and toxic plants, see [http://www.birdchannel.com/bird-diet-and-health/bird-medical-conditions/birds-and-plants.aspx here]. |
| − | #Protect your bird from other pets. If you have a cat or dog, be sure that your bird has a very sturdy cage that cannot be toppled. Also be certain that your cat cannot fit its paw through the bars.< | + | #Protect your bird from other pets. If you have a cat or dog, be sure that your bird has a very sturdy cage that cannot be toppled. Also be certain that your cat cannot fit its paw through the bars.<ref>http://beautyofbirds.com/homesafety.html</ref> Even if your bird is safe, you should know that living with a cat can be stressful for birds. |
===Protecting Your Bird from Airborne Toxins=== | ===Protecting Your Bird from Airborne Toxins=== | ||
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#*Used as a drip pan under burners. PTFE releases toxic chemicals starting at 536°F, and drip pans can easily reach 600°F or hotter. | #*Used as a drip pan under burners. PTFE releases toxic chemicals starting at 536°F, and drip pans can easily reach 600°F or hotter. | ||
#*Scratched. Scratched or otherwise damaged non-stick pans can release toxic chemicals at lower temperatures. Throw them out. | #*Scratched. Scratched or otherwise damaged non-stick pans can release toxic chemicals at lower temperatures. Throw them out. | ||
| − | #Be aware of other sources of PTFE. PTFE is not just used in cookware, but also in many products that must withstand high temperatures. Consider replacing any of the following, or call the manufacturer to see if the product is safe for use around your bird:< | + | #Be aware of other sources of PTFE. PTFE is not just used in cookware, but also in many products that must withstand high temperatures. Consider replacing any of the following, or call the manufacturer to see if the product is safe for use around your bird:<ref name="rf10" /> |
#*Stain repellants like StainMaster and Scotchguard | #*Stain repellants like StainMaster and Scotchguard | ||
#*Space heaters and heat lamp covers | #*Space heaters and heat lamp covers | ||
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#*Steam from a handheld steamer | #*Steam from a handheld steamer | ||
#*Laundry detergent for fabrics (but don’t use fabric softener on fabrics your bird will touch) | #*Laundry detergent for fabrics (but don’t use fabric softener on fabrics your bird will touch) | ||
| − | #*Grapefruit seed extract (about 35 drops ber 32oz. of water), makes for an effective disinfectant< | + | #*Grapefruit seed extract (about 35 drops ber 32oz. of water), makes for an effective disinfectant<ref>http://www.raisingarrows.net/2014/01/my-favorite-homemade-cleaner-3-ingredients/</ref> |
#*Baking soda (1/4 cup per gallon of water) | #*Baking soda (1/4 cup per gallon of water) | ||
| − | #Be careful when using candles or air fresheners. Your bird should be taken outside or to another, well-ventilated room when using plug-in or spray air fresheners, as they contain essential oils that are toxic to birds.<ref name="rf13">http://www.berkscountybirdclub.com/index_files/Scented%20Candles.pdf</ref> Many scented candles are also dangerous, as they contain essential oils and often have zinc alloy wicks. If you are going to burn candles, make sure they are 100% beeswax with all cotton wicks.< | + | #Be careful when using candles or air fresheners. Your bird should be taken outside or to another, well-ventilated room when using plug-in or spray air fresheners, as they contain essential oils that are toxic to birds.<ref name="rf13">http://www.berkscountybirdclub.com/index_files/Scented%20Candles.pdf</ref> Many scented candles are also dangerous, as they contain essential oils and often have zinc alloy wicks. If you are going to burn candles, make sure they are 100% beeswax with all cotton wicks.<ref>http://www.cafabirdclub.org/safetycorner/Safety_Corner_Candles.pdf</ref> |
#Do not smoke around your bird. Exposure to second hand smoke has been shown to cause respiratory and circulatory problems in birds, as well as eye and skin problems.<ref name="rf14">https://www.avma.org/public/PetCare/Pages/Stop-smoking-for-your-pets-health.aspx</ref> If you are going to smoke, do so outside to protect your bird. | #Do not smoke around your bird. Exposure to second hand smoke has been shown to cause respiratory and circulatory problems in birds, as well as eye and skin problems.<ref name="rf14">https://www.avma.org/public/PetCare/Pages/Stop-smoking-for-your-pets-health.aspx</ref> If you are going to smoke, do so outside to protect your bird. | ||
#Choose new furniture and household products with care. Most particleboard, plywood, and drywall use formaldehyde in the glue that holds them together. The glue that holds down carpets can also contain formaldehyde. New construction, new carpeting, and many types of furniture need time to “off-gas” before they cease releasing formaldehyde, so do not place your bird in a newly constructed room, a newly-carpeted room, or in a room with new furniture built with particle board or plywood.<ref name="rf15">http://www.treehugger.com/green-home/10-surprising-sources-gassing-your-home-and-what-you-should-do-about-it.html</ref> | #Choose new furniture and household products with care. Most particleboard, plywood, and drywall use formaldehyde in the glue that holds them together. The glue that holds down carpets can also contain formaldehyde. New construction, new carpeting, and many types of furniture need time to “off-gas” before they cease releasing formaldehyde, so do not place your bird in a newly constructed room, a newly-carpeted room, or in a room with new furniture built with particle board or plywood.<ref name="rf15">http://www.treehugger.com/green-home/10-surprising-sources-gassing-your-home-and-what-you-should-do-about-it.html</ref> | ||
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#*Raw mushrooms | #*Raw mushrooms | ||
#*Rhubarb | #*Rhubarb | ||
| − | #Do not leave out open water. Birds can drown in a glass of water, uncovered aquarium, or open toilet. If you are not going to keep a careful eye on your bird the entire time it is out of its cage, you’ll need to be sure to remove all access to open water to prevent drowning.< | + | #Do not leave out open water. Birds can drown in a glass of water, uncovered aquarium, or open toilet. If you are not going to keep a careful eye on your bird the entire time it is out of its cage, you’ll need to be sure to remove all access to open water to prevent drowning.<ref name="rf4" /> |
#Hide your wires and antiques. Again, birds like to chew on anything they can get their beaks on. Hide electrical cords and wires to avoid electrocution, and put away antiques, which may be coated with heavy-metal based paints that can cause led-poisoning.<ref name="rf18" /> | #Hide your wires and antiques. Again, birds like to chew on anything they can get their beaks on. Hide electrical cords and wires to avoid electrocution, and put away antiques, which may be coated with heavy-metal based paints that can cause led-poisoning.<ref name="rf18" /> | ||
| − | #Keep an eye on doors, windows, and cabinets. First off, you’ll want to make sure doors and windows to the outside are closed to keep your pet from flying away. Secondly, you’ll need to always make sure your bird is not on the hinge area or the top of a door or cupboard you are closing, or you could accidently crush the legs of your pet.< | + | #Keep an eye on doors, windows, and cabinets. First off, you’ll want to make sure doors and windows to the outside are closed to keep your pet from flying away. Secondly, you’ll need to always make sure your bird is not on the hinge area or the top of a door or cupboard you are closing, or you could accidently crush the legs of your pet.<ref name="rf18" /> |
#Keep the strings for blinds behind the blinds. Birds can get their heads tangled in the strings and strangle themselves.<ref name="rf18" /> | #Keep the strings for blinds behind the blinds. Birds can get their heads tangled in the strings and strangle themselves.<ref name="rf18" /> | ||
| − | #Turn off all fans. Standing fans and ceiling fans can both cause serious injury or death to your bird. Always check to be sure they are off before letting your bird out of its cage.< | + | #Turn off all fans. Standing fans and ceiling fans can both cause serious injury or death to your bird. Always check to be sure they are off before letting your bird out of its cage.<ref name="rf4" /> |
| − | #Cover or put decals on windows and mirrors. Your bird does not understand glass. It may injure itself by flying into a mirror or closed window. To prevent this, you can put decals on them so your bird knows they are solid, or simply lower the shades or cover your mirrors.< | + | #Cover or put decals on windows and mirrors. Your bird does not understand glass. It may injure itself by flying into a mirror or closed window. To prevent this, you can put decals on them so your bird knows they are solid, or simply lower the shades or cover your mirrors.<ref name="rf16" /> |
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