Household Hazards for Birds

Have you recently adopted a bird? Our feathered friends are very small, but they can fill some pretty big spaces in our hearts and lives. However, they’re also very small and fragile, and a bit prone to mischief. You’ll need to be aware of the things that can endanger your little buddy. Here, a Fort Myers, FL vet lists some common household dangers for bird owners to be aware of.

Fans

Fans can seriously injure—or even kill—pet birds. It can be very easy to forget that you have a ceiling fan on! Get into the habit of turning all fans off before letting Polly out of her cage.

Cords

Cords and wires are another hazard. Use coverings to protect the ones you can’t secure.

Medicine

Be sure to keep both prescription and OTC medicines out of claws’ reach! Polly may not be able to resist playing with small containers or pill boxes. These often just look like toys or snacks to her.

Water

Birds can drown in just a few inches of water. Keep toilet lids down, and don’t let Polly out when you have filled sinks or tubs.

Windows/Mirrors

Birds don’t always recognize reflective or clear surfaces as barriers, and sometimes try to fly through them. This can be very dangerous for Polly! Window treatments help with this. Just be sure to choose ones your colorful pet can’t get tangled up in.

Food

Many of our favorite foods are dangerous to birds! Ask your vet for specific information.

Kitchens

The kitchen is a very dangerous place for birds! Pots of hot water or sauces are one concern. Even a sink full of dishes is a hazard. Polly could also injure herself on sharp knives.

Fumes

Our feathered buddies have extremely sensitive lungs, and can be sickened by strong scents and fumes. Some examples are cigarette smoke, scented candles, aerosols, paint, perfume, air fresheners, turpentine, cooking fumes, and household cleaners. Make sure that Polly is only exposed to fresh, clean air. We recommend getting a good air purifier.

Other Pets

We know, it’s cute to see photos of birds hanging out with their four-legged ‘siblings.’ However, dogs, cats, and other pets really aren’t safe playmates for our winged pals. Polly is very fragile, and can easily be hurt!

Do you have questions about bird care? Contact us, your Fort Myers, FL vet clinic, today!