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Some things you should know about being a parrot owner 

Pet birds are extremely susceptible to a wide variety of household dangers. There are a number of reasons for this. As a rule the smaller the bird the more rapid their metabolism and they all have extremely sensitive respiratory systems. Parrots have intense curiosities and need to explore everything with their beaks. Bird owners need to be constantly on their guard for hazards around their home that may injure or even kill their bird! Birds are susceptible to a wide range of toxic substances which can injure or kill either by ingestion or inhalation. 

1.      Be careful when using Teflon or other non-stick cookware. The fumes from these pots and pans are extremely toxic to birds. Teflon can become toxic at temperatures as low as 375 degrees. I suggest moving your bird to a different room altogether. If you must use these items, be sure to open windows to vent the fumes. When overheated, the non stick coating emits fumes that are very toxic to birds when inhaled. This coating is found on non stick cookware but can also be found on waffle irons, bread machines, irons, ironing board covers, curling irons, space heaters, hair dryers and more. Do not overheat any non-stick cooking utensils.

2.       Avocados and chocolate are poisonous to birds.  Be careful what you feed your bird. These are only two of the toxic substances that can kill your bird. One of the most common toxins is insecticides sprayed in the home. Others include ammonia, bleach, oven cleaner, glues, nail polish remover, paint, incense and perfumes. House plants are also a danger always check what type of plants are accessible to your bird. Birds are especially sensitive to contaminants in the air. Aerosol products of any kind should not be used around your bird. Smoking has also been implicated in respiratory disease in pet birds. Carbon monoxide is also dangerous to birds, use of a carbon monoxide detector is recommended.

3.       Birds, not having hands investigate everything with their beaks. Electrical cords pose a danger if bitten. Keep cords and appliances away from the bird cage, conceal cords as much as possible.

4.       A seed only diet should be avoided. They need fresh fruits and vegetables, a good quality pellet food i.e. Pretty Bird, Zupreem, Mauri etc. and a good seed mix i.e. L&M, Jones Grains Plus, lots of fresh water and even some people foods. By not providing a good all-around diet you could be shortening your bird’s life span. Sunflower seeds are extremely high in fat and should be fed sparingly. They contribute to kidney and liver disease.

5.       Ceiling fans can be extremely hazardous to birds. Birds are very excitable and if spooked may fly into a moving fan blade.

6.      The kitchen is the most dangerous place for your bird. Never cook with open pots or pans if your bird is out of its cage!

7.       Be careful of the kinds of toys you give your bird. Some parrot toys can be of a hazard to your bird. Braided rope toys can be a danger.  My Timneh separated a braided rope and got tangled up in it. Being tangled up can panic a bird which could result in broken wings or other injuries, in the worse case scenario it is possible for them to be strangled. I have found that they are just as happy with unpainted wooden blocks, pecan or willow limbs and uncolored rawhide chew toys. Only use wooden toys colored with non-toxic food coloring.

8.       Never attempt to touch or pick a parrot up if it is fluffing its feathers, making growling sounds, or moving back and forth in an agitated manor. Watch for these warning signs. Depending on the species a parrot bite can be severe and could require stitches. Always approach them in a calm and slow manner. Talk in a low reassuring voice.

9.       Depending on species even a small amount of bleeding may be fatal to your bird. A bird’s circulatory system contains only a small amount of blood. Should bleeding occur immediately apply a blood clotting agent. A bottle of Quick Stop clotting agent is a must for every bird owner. This can be purchased at most pet stores. Apply the powder and hold pressure on the wound till bleeding stops. In an emergency cornstarch or flour may be substituted.

10.   If you do not know the correct way to clip your birds wings DON’T. Take your bird to a Certified Avian Veterinarian. Personally I do not believe in trimming a bird’s talons. If their talons are excessively sharp I suggest use of a small concrete perch. Do not place by food bowl as excessive perching on a concrete perch can result in sore feet and possibly infection. This will dull the talons a little when they eat. All other perches should be of hardwood.

11.   The above items are by no means all you should know. Obtain a good book for the species of bird you have and read thoroughly. Knowledge is the best way to keep your bird healthy and happy. 

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