Avoid areas that are cold or drafty. [3] X Research source
Consider different types of baths such as shower perches, spray bottles, your kitchen sink, or a cage mounted bath bowl. Some birds will even rub themselves against wet branches as a cleaning method. [6] X Research source Fill the container with 1–2 inches (2. 5–5. 1 cm) of water so your bird can walk and preen as it likes. [7] X Research source Use lukewarm to room temperature water for your bird’s bath to keep it from chilling. [8] X Research source Avoid forcing your bird to bathe. [9] X Research source Use soap only in cases where your bird is oily and supervised by you. [10] X Research source
Make sure the spray is a mist or has very light pressure so that you don’t hurt your bird. For example, some birds may enjoy the spray from a sink. [13] X Research source Spray it every day or whenever it’s necessary. [14] X Research source Avoid misting or spraying water directly in your bird’s face. [15] X Research source Buy a commercial bird cleansing spray if you like, though this is generally unnecessary. [16] X Research source
Make sure your bird is stable enough to wash with soap. [19] X Research source Fill a container with an inch or two of water. Add a low concentration dishwashing liquid like Dawn, which has been shown to effectively and easily remove oils without irritating birds’ eyes or skin. [20] X Research source Rinse your bird thoroughly with a gently mist or spray of water. [21] X Research source This is important so that it dries properly and its natural waterproofing process isn’t affected. [22] X Research source Talk to your vet if your bird is soiled with something that is difficult to remove, such as gum. [23] X Research source
Avoid using a hair dryer to dry your bird, which can burn its skin. [26] X Research source Avoid drying it with a towel. Allowing its feathers to dry and rearrange themselves naturally as part of the waterproofing process. [27] X Research source Stroke your bird gently in the direction of her feathers if the bird allows. This can help it dry. [28] X Research source Be aware that your bird’s chest may shiver after its bath. This doesn’t mean it’s cold, but is a natural reaction to generate body heat that helps dry feathers. [29] X Research source
Find a vet specifically for your bird at the Association of Avian Veterinarians. [30] X Research source
It should allow her to easily fly and spread her wings It should provide enough space for her food and water dishes It should have plenty of stimulation from toys and perches. [33] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source
Tidy up when your bird is playing outside of her cage. Remember to give your bird as much out-of-cage time as possible, which can make maintenance easier. [35] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source Change out her food and refill her bottle with fresh water. [36] X Research source Remove any seeds or nuts from the bottom of the cage. You’ll also need to remove any feces or other feathers from the bottom of the cage, too. [37] X Research source Place fresh liners of paper or towels on the bottom of the cage if you use it. Throw away the soiled paper. [38] X Research source Wipe down any surfaces with a vinegar and water mixture or an enzyme spray you purchase at a pet store. [39] X Research source
Clean the cage when your bird is enjoying out-of-cage time. Remove everything from the cage, including toys and food and water dishes. Make a paste from baking soda and water or mix ¼ cup borax with 1 cup baking soda. These mixtures can scrub surfaces including perches and cage bars. Wipe down the cage bottom with a mixture of ½ cup borax, ¼ cup white vinegar, and 2 gallons of hot water. Wash food and water dishes with dish soap in the hottest water you can. Trim any frayed ends or splinters from perches and toys. Clean any areas around the cage such as blinds or carpets. You can wipe these down or vacuum them. Replace any liners at the bottom of the cage with fresh material. [41] X Research source
Not eating food Throwing up, including undigested or half-digested food stuck to strange places on the cage Discolored, undigested, or runny poop Ragged or plucked feathers at the bottom of the cage Blood anywhere in the cage. [43] X Research source Lack of urine or oddly colored urine.
