How to Shower a Parrot

Arthur the Parrot

Parrots have the tendency to build up a lot of dust and dander on their feathers, which results in the particles being spread throughout your furniture and carpeting. Sometimes they can even develop an odor. these problems can be corrected by offering them a nice, warm shower. Not all parrots will love taking a shower, but if you start the practice while they are young, they will grow to enjoy it. But remember that parrots are creatures of habit, and if you do choose to begin showering your parrot, he will grow to expect it, so try to form a routine that will involve a weekly or biweekly shower. Amazingly, he may become aware of when he is due for a shower and remind you.

Things You'll Need

• Removable tension bar
• Shower
• Shower head
• Warm water

Instructions

1. 

   Prepare your shower area before you introduce your parrot to the area. Installing a removable tension bar for him to stand on is a necessary part of the preparations. He needs to have a stable perch to stand on during the showering process and the extendable bar adds this type of security.

2. 

   Position your shower head in a manner that will not force a strong stream of water onto your parrot during his shower. The shower head should be set at the lowest pressure, as to not cause harm and the water must be set at a temperature that is appropriate for your parrot. When setting the water temperature, think of what you would use for a child--comfortably warm. Test the water before allowing your parrot to enter the shower and wait a few minutes for the water heat and pressure to adjust before beginning.

3. 

   Ask your parrot to step up onto the shower bar at a point where it is free of the falling water. For instance, placing your parrot on the shower bar opposite the end that is under the shower head, will allow him to walk over to the running water at his own pace. Most parrots prefer to stand under the shower water for a short period, and then walk a way for another short while to preen. This scenario will offer an optimum shower experience.

4. Allow your parrot to enjoy his showering experience for a considerate amount of time. Most parrots will squawk, sing, talk to you, and carry on in ways that show that they are happy with the showering process. When they have had enough, they will usually show signs such as no longer entering the water and calling to you to help them exit the shower.

5. 

   Dry your parrot with a soft towel after showering. Blotting off any excess water will help speed up his drying process, and for some extra drying help, you can use a blow dryer set on very low heat, and a low speed. Most parrots love the warmth provided by the blow dryer, but it is not necessary to dry him completely. You can add your assistance, and your parrot will do the rest on his own.

6. Place your parrot in his cage or on his perch in a warm area where he will not catch a chill. On a warm, sunny day you may also consider allowing him to dry outside on his perch.

Tips & Warnings

• Talk to your parrot during his shower, and make it a fun and enjoyable experience. Parrots that are afraid of the water originally tend to become more comfortable if the owner is interactive.

• Parrots also love to splash around in the bathtub. Just be sure that the water is very shallow.

• Do not leave your parrot unattended in the shower as he may try to get out on his own and hurt himself.

• Do not use any type of soaps or shampoos on your parrot. Use of these products can be hazardous to his health.

• Make sure that you do offer some type of drying assistance to your parrot afterwards. Totally drip drying in his cage is not advisable.

Resources

• See more of Arthur the Parrot and his shower routine