Bird Tips

Before I got Kadence, I did a lot of shopping around to find the best deals on everything. There are so many different cages to choose from and pet stores will charge way more than they need to. Check Amazon for the best prices on cages. I got a cage that's large enough for Kadence to spread her wings and still have room for some of her toys and I paid less than I would have for a smaller cage in a pet store. Look for a 'breeding' or 'flight' cage. Roomier and cheaper than the more decorative cages you can find.

While there are some really nice store bought toys out there, its super easy to make your own. Not to mention they'll cost less. The Talk Budgies forum has some great ideas for homemade toys. The members of the forum are so nice and helpful. They were great when I had all my questions.

Water bottle or water dish? I recommend going with the water dish so your bird can bathe if he/she chooses to. In the summer I turn the faucet on to a trickle & let it warm up before I let Kadence in the sink to play. She loves bathing in the sink. I let her play until she hops out on her own. Be aware that if your bird drinks a lot of water during bath time (as Kadence does) their droppings will probably be more watery than normal until it's all passed. I freaked when I noticed this the first time. (A birds droppings can be your first sign of illness as they hide it well)

Get your bird to eat pellets, as well as seed, at a young age. It may take awhile (Kadence is stubborn) but keep at it. An all seed diet isn't healthy for your bird. I use the Zupreem fruit pellets for Kadence, only I get her the ones sized for Canary/Finches. I think their smaller size is easier for them to eat.

When it comes to getting your bird to try new foods such as fruits & veggies, I found the key is to eat them in front of the bird. Kadence will not leave me alone when I'm eating. She thinks she has to try anything I try.

Popcorn is a very cheap snack. We've always got a bag of popcorn seeds in the house. Throw a few in the microwave & voila a quick and easy snack for your bird. Do NOT give your bird popcorn that has butter or salt on it. I don't care if it looks 'clean' don't do it.

Okay, my brain is shutting down due to migraine again. Perhaps I'll update this later.