Caring for a bird

Feeding a bird 

Ensure that you are providing the appropriate diet for your bird, and always provide free access to ample fresh water daily. 

Veterinary care for a bird 

If you suspect your pet is unwell, monitor its behaviour and appearance. Symptoms could be: 

• No/poor appetite 

• Inactivity or lethargy 

• Diarrhoea 

• Changes in their poop 

• Feather plucking 

• Unusual puffing of feathers 

Cage setup for a bird 

Your bird cage should always be big enough to allow your bird to fly about within the cage. It is important to let them exhibit natural flying behaviour, and exercise their wing muscles. 

Provide suitable toys, perches and hides for your birds to ensure optimal welfare. 

Socialisation and enrichment for a bird 

Different bird breeds have varying levels of intelligence and some may require more enrichment than others. For instance, macaws are highly social birds that thrive on companionship. If left alone for long periods of time, they may develop behavioural issues such as feather plucking. Canaries on the other hand, do not require as much interaction with owners and are typically easier to care for. Therefore, it is important to know the characteristics and breeds of your pet bird so that you can better cater to their needs.