How to Take Care of Your Parrots

Parrots are interesting pets. They are very smart and adapt well to most households. Parrots learn quickly and once you get the hang of caring for one properly, you will enjoy sharing your home with this beautiful pet. If you are considering a parrot as a new pet, then you certainly need to learn how to care for one before making that purchase.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cage
• Parrot stand
• Newspaper or wood shavings
• Cuttlebone
• Fresh water
• Parrot food
• Fresh fruits and vegetables

1. Is a parrot the right pet for you? There are different types of parrots, so you will want to know which one is right for you. In addition, you need to make sure that a parrot is a good choice for your home.

2. Parrots have a long lifespan, so you need to make sure you are ready to make a long term commitment to this pet. It is estimated that a parrot will require at least two hours of your time each and every day. That is a lot, and you need to make sure you have adequate time for your new bird. A bird that is left on its own will develop behavioral issues. Parrots are not "show pets" to impress your friends and neighbors. They require real work each and every day.

3. Once you have picked a healthy parrot to bring into your home, you will need to get the right equipment for caring for the new pet. A cage will be a big purchase. You need to take your time to pick the right one for your bird. You need a cage that will allow your bird to sit on the perch without touching the sides, toys or the bottom of the cage. The bird should have plenty of room to stretch and spread its wings. The cage should be rather large, as parrots are big birds.

4. You will also need to invest in a good parrot stand. Most parrots enjoy a daily fly around the house and will need a perch for resting.

5. You will also want to line the bottom of the cage with newspaper or wood shavings and buy natural branches that are left untreated. Toys are always fun, but make sure you buy toys that are made just for parrots.

6. Now that you have your parrot set up in a warm, sunny room, free of perfumes and toxic smells, you will want to learn how to care for the bird. They are demanding. Feed your parrot pellets made for them and give your bird fresh fruits and vegetables on a regular basis. They enjoy apples, oranges, carrots and even sweet potatoes.

7. Fresh water should be given daily. Also, consider vitamins and minerals that can be mixed with water or food. A piece of cuttlebone will keep your parrot’s beak well maintained and wing clipping should only be done by a professional.

8. Your parrot will also enjoy a bath every two or three days. Put the bath in the cage and let them get wet. You don’t need to add any chemicals or soap. Lukewarm water will be fine.

9. Caring for your pet parrot will get easier over time. You should also learn how to train your bird. With proper care she will give you a lifetime of entertainment and companionship.

Tips & Warnings

• Before you even consider buying a parrot, do your research carefully.

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[imme911]

on 7/29/2009 good posting. i like the emphasis on research before buying a parrot, so many people dont understand how sensative these guys are and how long they live