A Parrot As A Pet Is A Recent Phenomenon

Thursday, February 8th, 2007 by Elle Woloszuk 0 Comments

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Very recent trackings on internet activity, questions posted, sites visited, and searches suggests that parrot keeping is growing daily and is a very recent phenomenon. Parrot’s make great companions and pets, but please make sure you are aware of their needs before purchasing one. Because this is a new trend, many pet owners are finding it difficult to find much information on owning a parrot.

Here are a few tips to get you started:

Your pet parrot will live in a cage, so you will have to buy one that is big enough for it to flap its wings; generally, the bigger it is the happier your parrot will be. It should be wire because your pet parrot will eat a wooden cage.

Parrots are extremely intellingent, so make sure the door is large enough so that the parrot can fit through it, but be certain it cannot be opened from the inside or your parrot will surely firgure out how to open its cage door. Usually a complex door mechanism is necessary.

Parrots are very playful and will love a swinging perch or squeaky toy. Check to make sure the toy is especially made for parrots and is not harmful to them because kthey love to gnaw on things.

The bottom of your pet parrot’s cage should be lined with sand, shredded paper, straw, or sawdust. Sand is best because it serves more than one purpose; it provides minerals necessary to your parrot’s health and your pet parrot will use it to shape his beak (their beaks grow similarly to our fingernails and need to be trimmed and shaped regularly).

Monthly, thorough cleaning of the cage should suffice. All the bars, doors, and the floor of the cage need to washed thoroughly with warm water and a gentle soap.

Old food and feces should be removed from the cage four times a week. Parrots like a clean environment and if it is not kept clean, the bird will be stressed out all the time. This could reduce his lifespan.

Parrots like to be fed small meals throughout the day instead of one or two large ones. Pre-packaged parrot food is best because it will contain the vitamins and minerals necessary for your pet parrot’s health and well-being.

If you want to teach your pet parrot to talk, use the same simple word or short phrase at the same time of day every day. You will be amazed at how quickly he learns to speak!

Have fun with your gorgeous pet parrot and with conscientious care and attention, you will enjoy him for many years — some live up to 70 years!