!Header Buttons Right Side

Adopting A Bird

February 1, 2022

Are you thinking about adopting a pet bird? Good for you! Birds have really specific care needs, so if you have never had one before, you’ll want to do your research beforehand. A vet talks about bird adoption below.


Compatibility

We love birds! But still, they aren’t necessarily going to be a right match for every family. One thing you’ll want to consider is other pets. Polly can live with cats and dogs as long as you keep them separated. Another concern is air quality. Our feathered friends have very sensitive lungs, and can get quite sick from breathing vapors and fumes. If you have housemates who smoke indoors, or do lots of crafts that involve chemicals, you’ll need to be especially careful.


Breeds

Different types of birds have very different personality traits and needs. For instance, a finch is very quiet and tiny, and may be quite timid. On the other hand, a parrot may enjoy dancing and belting out songs , and will need lots of playtime and toys, as well as a roomy cage. Just be sure to pick a bird that will fit into your household.


Lifespan

Something else to consider is longevity. Some birds live over 50 years! Compared to adopting a dog or a cat, that’s a much longer commitment. Polly also gets quite attached to her owners, and may be traumatized when changing homes multiple times. Adoption is forever!


Care Needs

While Polly will spend a lot of time in her cage, she’ll still get very unhappy and restless if she’s stuck in it all the time. Like any other pet, birds need lots of attention and love, as well as toys and playtime. So your little buddy will need time out of her cage every day. Birds are very small and fragile—not to mention playful and curious. This means you’ll need to make sure your home is a safe haven for your colorful little buddy. Bird-proofing is a must!


Getting Settled

Once you’ve thought things over and done your research, the next step is adopting your winged buddy. Be sure to have Polly’s cage ready for her, so you’ll want to choose your bird before you go shopping. A trip to the vet is definitely in order. Aside from that, just enjoy getting to know your new pet. We suspect it won’t take long before your feathered pal melts your heart!


If you have more questions about bird care, contact us!

ferret on a table

Feeding Your Ferret: Nutrition 101

Ferrets are playful, curious companions with unique dietary needs. At Clyde’s Animal Clinic in Mattoon,
Cat sleeping on white blanket

Recognizing Chronic Pain in Pets: Signs to Watch

Pets can’t tell us when they hurt, but that doesn’t mean they suffer in silence.
rabbit on grass

Playtime for Bunnies: Enrichment Essentials

Rabbits aren’t just adorable—they’re active, intelligent animals that need daily mental and physical stimulation to
Dog with very large ears that are being held up

Ear Infections in Dogs and Cats

Ear infections in dogs and cats are common but can cause significant discomfort if left
Border collie with fluffy ears

Senior Pet Wellness Exams in Mattoon: Keeping Older Pets Healthy

Just like people, dogs and cats need extra care as they get older. At Clyde’s
Small dog being carried

Understanding Diabetes in Dogs and Cats

Diabetes in dogs and cats is a serious but manageable condition that affects the way
Bearded dragon beside pool

Bearded Dragon Care Guide: Habitat, Diet & Daily Health

Bearded dragons, or “beardies,” are among the most popular pet reptiles, known for their docile
Blue parakeet on someone's hand

Parakeet Care Guide: Housing, Diet & Enrichment

Parakeets, also called budgies, are lively, social birds known for their vibrant feathers, cheerful chirps,
Fluffy Guinea pig with red fur and white face

Guinea Pig Care 101: Housing, Diet & Daily Needs

Bringing home a guinea pig is an exciting moment for any family, but these adorable,
Kitty trying to climb window

Exercise Routines for Indoor Cats

Indoor cats may be safe from cars, predators, and harsh weather, but without regular activity,