FAQ: Health for birds

There are sprays, powders and cage cleaning products made for birds and their surroundings. Choose only products clearly made for birds, use them strictly according to the label, and discuss treating the bird itself with a vet.

No, products for dogs and cats can be toxic to birds even in small amounts. Use only products made for birds, and only as the label states or the vet advised.

The effectiveness of such hangers is doubtful, and some release substances the bird breathes in constantly. Ask a vet before using them, and rely more on a clean cage and regular checks for prevention.

The cage needs to be taken apart, washed thoroughly, the cracks cleaned and, if needed, treated with a product made for bird cages according to the label. Throw away the litter and nesting material, and discuss treating the bird and when to clean again with a vet.

Mites often hide in the cracks and ends of wooden perches, and these are hard to clean completely. That is why after a mite infestation it is often simpler to replace wooden perches with new ones.

It is a condition caused by mites in which greyish, crusty, porous growths appear on the beak, cere, around the eyes or on the legs. If you notice such changes, contact a vet, as left untreated they can deform the beak.

These are mites that live in the airways, and they can make a bird breathe with a clicking sound, breathe with its beak open or lose its voice. These signs can point to other illnesses too, so the bird needs to see a vet promptly.

Yes, especially if the bird is kept in an outdoor aviary or on a balcony where wild birds can reach it. The risk is also higher when using branches or nesting material gathered outdoors, so these must be treated thoroughly or avoided.

Red mites can sometimes bite people and cause itching, but they do not live on humans. The main thing is to deal with the bird's surroundings, and to see a doctor about any skin irritation if needed.

The bird is worth checking each time you handle it, and the cage perches, cracks and nest box when you clean the cage. In the warm season, when mites breed faster, it is worth checking more often.

Bathing helps keep the feathers clean and well groomed, but it does not protect against mites or lice. Cage hygiene, quarantine and regular checks matter most for prevention.

The labels of many cage products say to spray only with the bird removed and to let surfaces dry. Always follow the specific product's label and air the room well.

Yes, a nest box with nesting material is one of mites' favourite hiding places, and they are especially dangerous to chicks. The nesting material needs changing, and the box should be cleaned and dried thoroughly between broods.

See a vet as soon as you suspect parasites, especially if the bird is weak, pale or restless, or if chicks are affected. The vet will identify the parasite and prescribe suitable, safe treatment.

Many essential oils can be harmful to birds, as their respiratory system is very sensitive. Do not use home or natural remedies on a bird without a vet's advice.

A new bird can carry diseases or parasites without showing any visible signs. Keeping it apart for a while gives you a chance to notice signs of illness before it meets your other birds.

Quarantine usually lasts several weeks, but the exact length is worth discussing with a vet, taking into account where the bird came from and its species. Watch the bird during that time and contact a vet if you notice any changes.

Keep the new bird in another room with its own dishes, toys and cleaning equipment. Look after your existing birds first, and wash your hands after caring for the new one.

Yes, a check-up with a vet who treats birds helps spot diseases or parasites early. The vet can also advise which tests are needed and when it is safe to introduce the bird to others.

Yes, separate dishes, drinkers, brushes and other equipment reduce the chance of passing diseases or parasites to other birds. Do not mix them with other birds' things until quarantine is over.