Health and Feeding

Health and Feeding.

***HEALTH***

All birds have an inherent trait. That is - they try not to show when they are sick. A sick bird is the target of predators. It is very important to learn and understand the subtle signs that your bird may have a problem. Once you start noticing obvious signs of a sick bird, it's usually too late to help. Immediate care by a trained avian veterinarian will be needed.

Many times you can simply stand on the other side of the room and observe the bird. Look for birds with fluffed up feathers, sitting on the bottom of the cage or having problems perching, lethargic, lack of appetite, weight loss, or watery stools. Note that many veterinarians do not treat birds, so be sure you have the name of those vets in your area who are avian trained.

It is highly recommended that you have your bird examined at the time you purchase your bird. DO NOT depend on the word of the pet store or breeder that a bird was "vet checked". This may cost you some money, but the long term health of your bird is worth it.

***FEEDING***

Be sure that you understand your birds feeding requirements. Some birds, such as African Greys, require a high protein diet. Amazons are better off with a low protein diet with more fruit. Birds will not survive long on an all seed diet. Many bird owners simply feed their birds seed because they do not want to invest the time in preparing other foods. Others simply fall onto folklore that birds were designed to eat seeds, and it's improper to deprive them of their favorite food.

It's important to note that parrots and parakeets are more delicate than humans and have special dietary requirements. Pay special attention to the next three information modules which are about the dangers of toxic foods and plants, as well as types of foods that we recommend for your bird.