How To Bathe Your Bird

Just like any pet, birds too need baths. The problem comes when new owners aren't sure about how to bathe birds and some birds haven't been conditioned to accept baths yet. Many tamed birds don't realize that daily showers would be a part of their natural daily grooming activities in the wild. It can take an effort on your part to learn what grooming methods will work the best for your new bird, but even the most reluctant birds can be conditioned to accept it. Here are some helpful rules to follow when bathing your bird:

1. Plain clear water ONLY: Even though some pet stores and companies offer commercial "bird shampoos", the best way to wash a bird is with plain water. Since birds produce a special oil that they preen their feathers with, soap can easily strip this oil away and cause health problems with your friend.

2. Bathe only during the warmest part of the day: Wet birds can easily get chilled and this can be a major health hazard. So, make sure that you bathe your bird during the warmest part of the day so that their feather's have a chance to dry completely before the temperature drops before nightfall. You also want to make sure that your home isn't too cold inside before you give your bird a bath.

3. Water temperature is key: Make sure that you check the water temperature before you allow your bird to get in it. Too hot or too cold water can shock a bird's system, or cause serious health problems like burns. Always check the temperature of the water before hand and make sure that it isn't too hot or cold. It should be right at room temperature or lukewarm.

4. Don't saturate your bird's feathers: Since wild birds don't allow their feathers to get completely soaked through, you should not allow this either. This can lead to your bird losing body heat and impare their flight.

5. Don't rush or force your bird: If your bird seriously fights against bathing, you want to make sure that you ease them into bathing. It might take a while for them to be completely comfortable, but it will happen. If you force your bird to get in the water or rush them to do so, they may rebel against it even more.

Simply follow these few rules when bathing your bird and you will find that they will start to truly enjoy bathing.