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Small Animal Medicine & Surgery
Call us today! 704-636-6613
Call us today! 704-636-6613

3200 Sherrills Ford Road
Salisbury, NC 28147

Tips for Bathing Your Bird

July 1 2021

Just like any other pet, birds need to clean themselves regularly to stay healthy. Polly will need regular bird baths. However, there are a few things to consider when giving your feathered buddy her beauty treatments. A local Salisbury, NC vet lists a few of them below.


 Time It Right

With a few exceptions, such as penguins, most birds’ feathers aren’t really made for swimming. Polly will need quite a while to dry off, and will need to stay in a warm area for a few hours. Keep this in mind when bathing her. Don’t give your feathered friend her bath when it’s chilly out, or just before she’s going to bed. 


Use The Time

Don’t put a clean bird into a dirty cage! After your winged pal has bathed, you have the perfect window of opportunity for washing her cage. This is also a good time for you to change out your pet’s perches and toys.


Give Polly Options

Birds may be small, but they are actually quite opinionated. Some of our winged pals prefer to go DIY, and enjoy having a birdbath in their cage. Large birds might like a perch in a shower. Or, Polly may just prefer to balance on your arm and splash around in a trickle of water from the faucet. Try a few different things and see what your cute pet likes best.


Play It Safe

Some birds like to bathe in sinks. This is fine, but take care. Polly can’t swim, so she can drown in just a few inches of water. Make sure the water only goes up to her knees. It should also be lukewarm, not hot or cold.


Don’t Use Soap

Soaps and shampoos may get us clean, but they are definitely not safe for birds. Just plain water will do the trick. If your feathered friend gets something spilled on her, ask your vet for instructions.


Try Misting

If your colorful little buddy doesn’t seem to care for baths, or if you just want to help her freshen up between them, try misting her lightly with water. This will often prompt a preening session. (If Polly can talk, you may also catch an earful, but that’s another topic.)


Please do not hesitate to reach out if ever we can be of assistance. As your local Salisbury, NC veterinary clinic, we’re here to help!

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