Is your bird becoming a little butterball? The can happen due to overfeeding and under-exercising. But before you put your bird on a diet, consult with your avian veterinarian to make sure that puffiness is not due to a medical problem. If all is well, you can ask your vet to help you create a […]
Bird Health
This is the page for articles on Bird Health. Birds are such ajoy, adding color and song to our lives. We want to keep them in tip-top condition, making sure they maintain good health. These articles can help you recognize if your bird is ill. They are in no way a substitute for veterinary care.
Cooked or Raw Veggies for Birds
Vegetables are a very important part of your bird’s diet. They should be the major part along with sprouts and legumes and a high quality bird food. Raw veggies offer the highest amount of nutrients. According to the experts, veggies are best served raw. The most desirable veggies are those that are grown free of […]
CPR for Birds
If your bird has had an accident or is ill and suddenly stops breathing, you can help by learning to administer CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) before a crisis. It’s very important to remember to try to keep calm, think clearly and act quickly. A bird’s heart is low in the chest cavity and more towards the […]
Birds and Carbohydrates
When people hear the term blood sugar, the word sugar stands out making bird owners very nervous. Blood sugar does rise when eating, but that’s perfectly normal. Just like our bodies need carbohydrates and fats and some salt to survive, so do our birds. Carbohydrates are made up of simple sugars, starches and crude fiber. […]
Cancer in Birds
The incidence of cancer in birds is somewhat high. Causes and treatment often depend on the species of bird. Birds can suffer from a variety of cancers – lymphomas, melanomas, carcinomas. Parakeets, budgies and cockatiels appear to be more prone to cancer than other species of bird. Budgies under 5 years old can have kidney, […]
Broken Blood Feathers
A blood feather is a new feather that is growing. When a bird molts, each feather is replaced by a blood feather that grows to maturity until it molts and so on as the process continues. The quill of the blood feather contains a vein and artery that supplies blood, giving it the necessary nutrients […]
Helping a Blind Bird
Birds can become blind as the result of an injury or with age. But it’s amazing how resilient our pets can be. As long as you follow a few simple suggestions, blind birds can live normal lives. The most important thing to do is not to do – keep objects in the cage as they […]
Birds That Eat Nut Shells
Nuts are a healthy treat for birds. They are packed with protein, vitamins and minerals and essential fats. Nuts provide exercise and fun for birds who are able to break open the shells and get to the meat. But the problem arises when your bird thinks the shell is food. Most birds toss the shells […]
Bird Safety in Extreme Heat
Each summer parts of the world see record-breaking temperatures causing wildlife and humans much suffering. Birds are not exempt from the dangers of overheating and dehydration. Pet birds are accustomed to living indoors where temperatures can usually be moderated. But at times of electrical outages, we have to be prepared to see that our birds […]
What to Look For in a Bird that’s Ill
Birds hide their illnesses so well it’s often in the late stages that we discover they are sick. But there are signs that can help you find out if they are ill. Check your bird’s droppings daily. Color and consistency changes can mean problems. Yellow, rust or black droppings can be caused by internal bleeding. […]