A common problem that many parrot and pet bird owners face involves bathing their birds. Birds need to bathe often to clean their feathers, moisturize their skin and to regulate their dander. Some birds, for whatever reason, seem to be reluctant to bathe of their own. There are a few things that an owner can do to help their pet bird maintain their feathers and even help them learn to love bathing on their own.
Misting System
There are several bird misting systems on the market to help an owner bathe a reluctant bird. These systems deliver a very gentle mist, much finer than any spray bottle is able to achieve. It is very important that a mist bath be as gentle as possible so that the bird does not feel attacked by the water, and for that matter, by the owner.
Shower Perches
Pet birds, especially parrots, are very social animals. They will generally enjoy any activity that allows them to be with their owner. Many owners take advantage of this when it comes to bath time and simply bring their bird in to the shower with them, sometimes using a perch that suction cups to the side of the shower. Though this practice is common, it is not ideal. Birds should always bathe in room temperature or cool water, warm or hot water will strip essential oils from their skin and feathers.
Shallow Pools of Water
The ideal solution to a reluctant bather is to teach the bird the joys of bathing on its own. Providing a bird with a special, swallow dish used only for bathing is good start. Provide fresh, clean water and slowly introduce the bird to the idea of bathing in the dish. A method that has worked for aviculturists in the past is to show the bird how to play in the dish by lightly splashing in the water with their fingers. It may take several tries before a bird begins to trust their new bath, so patience is a must.
If a bird does not bathe, they can experience skin irritation or feather matting, both of which can lead to plucking or self-mutilation. A bird doesn’t have to bathe everyday, but they should have the opportunity to do so. If a bird will not bathe themselves and a misting system proves too stressful, talk to an experienced aviculturist or avian veterinarian for specific advice.
Janine Logue - Logue is a freelance writer with several years experience in the newspaper industry as both a reporter and editor.
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