Have you recently adopted a pet bird? Congratulations! Our feathered friends can make wonderful animal companions. Taking care of a bird is quite different from taking care of a dog or cat, however. Birds are very small and fragile, and are easily hurt. Making sure your home is safe for your cute pet is very important! Read on as a local Ellicott City, MD vet lists some household hazards for birds.

Fans

Fans are one of the biggest concerns when it comes to birds and household safety. Your winged friend could be badly hurt if she flies into a fan! Make sure to turn fans—especially ceiling fans—off before letting Polly out of her cage.

Fumes

Our feathered friends have very sensitive lungs, and can be sickened by breathing things that aren’t even noticeable to us. Vapors from cigarette smoke, cooking, perfume, aerosols, and cleaning products are all dangerous to birds. Ask your vet for more information.

Water

While our colorful little buddies certainly love their birdbaths, most birds can’t swim. Even a few inches of water can be dangerous for our feathered friends. Before letting your bird out to play, make sure the sinks and tubs are empty, and put the toilet lid down. Pots of water on the stove are also hazardous.

Windows/Window Treatments

Windows are very dangerous to birds. Polly may not recognize a window or mirror as a barrier, and could be seriously injured if she flies into it. Window treatments, such as drapes and curtains, can also be hazardous.

Small/Sharp Items

Birds are very curious by nature, and like to investigate or play with things they find lying about. Keep anything small or sharp, such as safety pins, tacks, sewing needles, and earrings, well out of Polly’s reach.

Other Pets

Dogs and cats are wonderful companions, but even if they get along great with your bird, it really isn’t safe to let them play together. Keep your furry buddies in another area when Polly is out of her cage.

Toxins

Many common household chemicals, such as cleaning agents, automotive products, and lawn/garden products, are toxic to birds. Keep these items in a secured spot, where your little pet can’t reach them.

Do you have questions or concerns about your pet’s health or care? Contact us, your Ellicott City, MD animal clinic, today! We are dedicated to providing excellent veterinary care.