What and Why – Pet Bird Cage Accessories
What and Why – Pet Bird Cage Accessories
Your pet bird’s environment is a vital part of its wellbeing, and once you have selected the proper pet bird cage, the next step is choosing accessories. Imagine living in a house without any dishes, no comfortable places to sit, and no color or decorations. This is what an unaccessorized cage feels like to your pet bird.
Pet birds eat throughout the day and require fresh water at all times. Choose feeding cups and bowls that are an appropriate size for your bird and are easily cleaned and sanitized. One option for feeding is the Tidy Seed Birdfeeder, which attaches inside or outside of the cage and helps contain the mess that birds often make by sorting and tossing seeds and hulls. These clear acrylic feeders have a built in perch and are easily removed for cleaning. Other options are stainless steel bowls, crocks with wire holders that attach to the cage and even specially designed treat and millet holders. Consider having multiple bowls on hand so there is always a clean bowl ready to go.
Birds enjoy bathing! Bathing is important for pet birds because it stimulates preening. The bathing and preening process is one that is very healthy for birds. Most birds delight in bathing by splashing in a bird bath filled with tepid water. Bathing allows them to clean themselves to promote feather and skin health. Be sure whenever your bird bathes, they are able to air-dry in a warm environment so they don’t get sick.
The “furniture” for your bird’s home is next. Perches are important to pet birds, as they provide different vantage points and interest. It’s always best to choose a cage with extra space to allow for perches at several different levels. You’ll need to select the appropriate sized perches for your bird’s feet – the wrong size can cause foot injury and arthritis. Swings and ladders can be a source of activity for a pet bird, adding some interest to the environment. Snugglies and snoozies are a nice addition to the cage as well, providing a safe and cozy place for the bird to sleep. You’ll also want to have cover to put over the cage at night, especially if noise and light will prevent the bird from getting a good night’s rest.
Just as you have favorite colors and decorations in your home, along with plenty of gadgets to keep you occupied, birds need stimulation and entertainment in their cage. Toys let curious birds play and investigate new textures, colors and challenges. There are pet bird toys for all sizes of birds, and you will find that your bird has favorites. Try out a rotation of different toys to expose your bird to rope toys, chew toys, puzzles (which simulate foraging in the wild), mirrors, brightly colored acrylic toys, and climbing toys and get a feel for what your bird finds exciting and fun.
Keep your bird’s safety in mind when choosing bird cage accessories, and always check to see how your accessories are holding up. It’s important to keep the cage and accessories clean and check for damage from playing and chewing on a regular basis.
Now that your bird’s home is furnished and accessorized with some of the basics, you should find that you have a healthy and happy companion. Sit back and watch your bird enjoy his new home.