If you have a bird as a part of your clan, you know just how much character they possess; they are rather cheerful and cheeky feathered friends!
If you notice your bird expressing the following symptoms, it’s possible that your tweety may be a little stressed out.
- Sudden biting, hissing, and lunging
- Increase in excessive screaming or decreased vocalisation
- Fear - your bird may be suddenly timid and avoid being handled
- Feather picking
- Self-mutilation
- Stereotypical behaviours, such as head banging (not due to heavy metal music)
- Decreased appetite
These symptoms can occur in many illnesses, so a medical examination that includes blood work, will help veterinarians to rule out any potential disease and focus on the issue at hand.
Here are some solutions to help your feathery friend avoid feeling those ‘fowl’ emotions:
A clean cage with fresh food and water is a fantastic start to boost the mood. How about a bird bath?
Birds are extremely social beings. Moving their cage to a part of the home where there’s more hustle and bustle would be highly beneficial for your winged friend, and make sure they get lots of free roaming time. Having the chirpy chap chill on your shoulder should work wonders (for the both of you!).
These guys tend to be decisively destructive, so having a little something-something for them to chew and bury their beaks into will save your furniture as well as their mental health.
Your pretty bird's attention span is similar to a kid’s. Stimulation is crucial for keeping your bird’s blues at bay. Combat the boredom by frequently changing their preloved toys with fresh, new gadgets to inspect.
Tips for leaving your bird in pet sitter care while you’re away.
Birds don’t always come across as the most approachable creatures. Many people fear birds, and rightfully so! They have a possessive quality about them and protect their human companion at all costs. When planning a trip, ensure that your bird sitter is reliable and has the confidence to handle your mini Pterodactyl.
If your sitter is not comfortable handling your bird, do make sure that their cage is accessible while closed in order to replenish and clean their cage. Entertainment is imperative, even if it is just a daily chat or live show through the bars. Preferably though, find someone who already has a good relationship with your bird, that way they receive all the attention they need in order to thrive while you are away.
Compile a list of detailed, clear instructions and requirements for your bird's temporary guardian. It seems like a given, but it will allow for peace of mind for everyone while you are away.
It’s not easy leaving one’s beloved pet behind, but finding trustworthy help will, without a doubt, put any anxieties at ease.