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Bird Grooming needs are pretty simple. Their talons
and beaks need to be kept trimmed, especially if they don't wear them down enough themselves. if they are allowed to grow
unchecked, it can result in some pretty serious problems. Beaks can become misshapen, hampering feeding and causing malnutrition
or vitamin deficiencies.bacterial growths can cause serious health problems in the softer beak areas if left unchecked. Overgrown
Talons impede the birds ability to hold onto a perch or branch, which can make accidents more likely. If the talons are neglected
for too long, the bird can actually develop deformed feet, painful blisters and calluses, and out of place postures causing
problems in all their bones and muscles.
Wild birds take care of this naturally, wearing their beaks and talons through use.
Caged birds, or those that spend most of their time on perches, should be given toys that wear at the beaks and talons
as they are played with. certain stones can be bought that hang on the birds play area for this purpose.
Most bird owners keep their birds wings clipped, to prevent them from flying away or wildly
through the house. This service can be found in most grooming shops, pet stores that sell birds, and veterinarians. Make
sure that the person clipping your bird has plenty of experience, and have them explain EXACTLY what they plan to
clip. Incorrect clipping of feathers can seriously injure and even kill a bird, so dont be shy about wanting their
best service and time/
Selecting a good Avian Veterinarian
is very important! E-Mail me for a good referral, and/or tips on choosing one in your area!
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I do Groom birds locally, at my shop in Pioneer. I also will come to your
home if you have a whole bunch of birds. call me at (209) 295-4564 for info and appointments!
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Birds love a good spritze bath! You can use a spray bottle, or for larger birds, a shower head on a
light spray setting is wonderful. You can buy all sorts of over the counter sprays also, but usually plain water is all
thats needed. Be sure that the temperature is warm, too hot can burn and too cold can chill.
New feathers are commonly called Wax feathers as they grow out, because they are encased in a waxy,
tube like covering. Most birds preen this off themselves. You can gently scrape this waxy substance off with your fingernails.
I have hand raised alot of exotic birds, preening away their wax feathers as babys was a bonding experience for both of us.
Injured birds with new feather growth may need an extra gentle touch, but might find it enjoyable too.
Keeping the cage and perches clean is very important to your birds well being and health.Wash out and
change water and food bowls daily, scrape perches and sand down any splinters or sharp edges, and keep cage bottom clear
of droppings. Most species of bird are very susceptable to bacterial illnesses, as well as viruses. A clean, dry, and
moderately warm environment promotes good health.
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