Pet birds just like us need to take a bath. This helps keep them clean and remove excess oil on their feathers. Doing this on a regular basis also promotes good health as they are also affected from household air conditioning and heating.
To do that, you first have to bring the pet bird to a room that is warm and has no drafts. It is also best to do this early during the day so the bird will be able to dry itself before bedtime.
The materials you will using will be a heavy dish filled with one or two inches of water. The reason for this is to create an artificial puddle which is what birds in the wild go when they feel the need to cleanse themselves.
The water used should be lukewarm or room temperature as cold water can chill them. Once inside the bowl, they can already bathe themselves.
Bigger birds cannot properly bathe themselves in a bowl. This is why it is a good idea to bring the bird out of its cage, let it stand on the perch and then you run the water lightly on them.
One of the most ideal places in the house to do this is the bathroom or the kitchen. With the hose is in your hand, never spray the water on their face. Do not also make the mistake of saturating your pet birds feathers. Doing so can lead to a loss of body heat and flight impairment.
While bathing them inside a bowl or on a perch, take note that it was never mentioned to use shampoo or soap on them because water is enough to cleanse them. Using any type of cleaning products is bad because it removes the birds natural oils.
After giving your pet bird a bath, you can let them dry on their own or wipe them gently using a towel. If you are going to do it, make sure that you only rub in the direction of the feather growth. Never use a hair dryer because you could burn them.
Dont forget to clean the sink or the tub with water and mild unscented soap after giving your pet bird a bath. This will ensure protection for you and your family who also use it when they brush their teeth or do the dishes.
Before you put the pet bird back in the cage, dont forget to change the cage bedding. Most of the time, this gets wet from the splashing as the bird washes itself and you wouldnt want bacteria to grow there that could get your bird sick.
Bathing your bed bird should be done once or twice a week. You can do this more often especially during the molten season because it helps remove itching. You just have to observe your bird to figure out if they prefer to take a bath.
Some birds do not like taking a bath. If you happen to be in this situation, you should gradually introduce them to it so they can get to enjoy it. One way is to get yourself wet and since they trust you, in time they will understand that it is perfectly alright.
A bath is always a refreshing experience and your pet bird should also have one every so often.
