Keeping a bird as a pet is really an enchanting and heart filling experience. Those little feathered fellows lighten up your home with their colorful appearance and chirping. But at the same time, it is more challenging to provide them a safe environment. That’s why bird proofing your home is much more significant than you think.
As a responsible bird owner, it is your utmost duty to bird proof the house even before bringing the pet. This detailed guide is all about what it takes to be a bird pet parent and how can you bird proof your house without missing out anything.
Common House Dangers for Pet Birds
Accompanying a bird is way more different than living with another human under same roof. We usually carry a lot of household things in our home which are necessary for us but could be life threatening for our pet birds. Here is a list of some common dangers usually present in every home.
Open doors and windows
Need special supervision to prevent your birds from escape.
Cords & Wires
Birds get attracted to them and they are easy to chew and cause great damage.
Sprays
Either cosmetic sprays, insect killing sprays or perfumes. All of them could harm your pet.
Disinfectants & Detergents
Keeping them in easily open containers and access to these cleaning agents is life risking.
Toxic Plants
Some plants like poinsettias, lilies etc., can be toxic in nature and sitting on them or biting them is not safe for your bird.
Small Objects
Things like jewelry, beads, nails and kitchen items are small enough to be swallowed. This can result choking.
Is Bird Proofing Essential for UK Houses?
The one word answer to this is YES. The architectural structure of houses in UK in general make it more necessary to take precautionary measurements. Now let’s discuss what factors make your house in UK need of bird proofing specifically.
Poor Insulation
Not all of them but old constructions specially from Victorian or Edwardian eras can have poor insulation systems. These types of houses generally lack the protection from outer weather conditions. That’s why sudden temperature fluctuations can be harmful for your little angles causing them health issues and breathing problems.
Small Area
Many UK houses lack free spaces. The flats and other residents have little open areas which is sometime not sufficient for birds. Birds love to explore and need good space to fly and play around. That’s why bird proofing is mandatory to provide them ideal space.
Tilt Windows
The tilt windows are more common in UK houses which have spaces for escape. Leaving it unattended can be dangerous and reason of losing your pet bird.
Indoor Fireplaces
Most UK houses have open fireplaces and radiators which is deadly for birds.
Double Glazed Glass Windows
The double-glazed glass windows are common in UK. They are very clear and create illusion by reflections. Specially skies and outdoor places’ reflection make birds confuse and they can hit the window thinking its open place.
Tips for Bird Proofing your UK House
Pet Birds are generally supposed to live in cages but keeping them there for longer period can affect their health. Nature didn’t create anyone to live in cages. Your bird deserves a free space to live happily and safely.
Even if you have built an aviary it’s still not all what they want. According to RSPCA, a minimum of six hours of indoor free fly every day is a must. But make sure your pet is well trained and tamed, and is micro-chipped or ringed to avoid lost.
Let’s now discuss how each room of your house could be bird proof one by one.
Living Room
The most common sitting area of your house is living room where all the family members spend quality time together. To make your bird join you there safely here are some safety steps to follow:
Secure all electrical wires and cords
Wires and cords can result in electric shock. To avoid emergencies, buy some good cord covers or hang the cords above on the wall at a safer height. Small fairy lights can also be dangerous. Keep them away.
Remove Toxic Plants
Indoor plants look super aesthetic but watch out they could be toxic. You can make a list of bird safe indoor plants and replace them with any toxic plant in your house.
Gaps and Small Spaces
Birds may find small nooks attractive and go for an exploration. Try to protect them from places like behind electrical appliances, under furniture, or between shelves. These places could cause injuries to them. Fill gaps beneath doors, cover electrical outlets and close open vents.
No Candles & Fireplaces
Birds have a very sensitive respiratory system. Do not ignite candles or fireplaces when you have your bird free play time. Also, candle wicks contain heavy metals and scented candles have perfumes, which can cause respiratory inflammation.
Install blinds
To avoid your birds hitting the clear glass windows, install proper window blinds or cloth curtains.
Remove pointy home decor
You like your house well decorated but sometimes a pointy element in your home décor can be hurtful. Keep them out of the range of your pet.
Kitchen
Kitchen could be one of the most dangerous place for birds. Try to keep your birds out of our kitchen. But if you have an open kitchen take a look at the following things.
Open Flames
Don’t bring the bird inside your house while your gas stove is on. Your cooking utensils should be at room temperature to avoid any burn issue.
Teflon Coated Cookware
Teflon (Polytetrafluoroethylene) coated cookware is more dangerous than any other material. They can easily kill birds even they are heated above 400 degree Fahrenheit. Not only this this coating itself is poisonous for birds. Use stainless steel, cast iron or ceramic cookware instead.
Sharp Tools
Make sure all sharp tools, knives, forks and blades are out of reach of birds.
Bathroom
Bathrooms are no less dangerous for birds. Here are some hazards to avoid.
Mirrors
Cover your bathroom mirror to avoid collision. Close vents and fans too.
Toilet
Toilets could be deadly for your birds. Keep the lid closed they can fall there very easily.
Standing water
Check the bath tub, it should be dry. Wipe out all the standing water on the floor or bathroom corners.
Bleach and Cleaners
Detergents, bleaches and cleaning agents in your bathroom contain high chemicals. Make sure they are secure in leak proof containers. Cover the soap bar or keep liquid soap bottles out of range.
Bedroom
Your bedroom is your comfort place so you must make it comfortable for your beloved pet too.
Remove small chewable
The small jewelry on your dressing table is not safe at all for your fellow. Birds are attracted to shiny objects and that’s why your small studs, earrings, rings can be their favorite chewable.
Cosmetics
Makeup products contain chemicals that can be dangerous for birds. Other than this, hairspray, or spray deodorant produce toxic fumes which attack bird’s respiratory system. Avoid spraying air fresheners as they are equally risky.
Drawers and Cupboards
Small birds can easily be stuck in drawers and cupboards. Make sure all drawers and cupboard doors are closed and properly locked.
Make your Bird Proof Space More Enchanting
Taking too much precautions doesn’t mean your bird cannot have fun inside. In fact, you can add more fun elements in your house than what they get in cage.
Here are a few tips to make your home an enchanting and entertaining place:
• Make a safe corner specially for your pet birds
• Provide them bird safe toys. Keep changing toys so they don’t get bored.
• Install perches, and other climbing structures.
• Play gyms can also help them in mental stimulation.
• Put bird safe lights and keep the atmosphere enjoyable
• Allow other fellow birds to play along
• Avoid high volume music or other noises as it can stress the pet
Things to Remember
• Teach your pet how to talk and tame them before allowing them roam freely.
• Carefully supervise the indoor play time.
• Make them understand cues to avoid harmful things and places
• Reward them often to build bond and trust.
• Show your kids how to be gentle with birds and tell them to avoid offering anything to eat.
• Most importantly take your time and be patient, your little birdies love when you treat them well.
FAQ
1. What is bird proofing?
Bird proofing is the process of making your house safe for your pet birds. Removing toxic elements, creating playful and safe environment is all a part of bird proofing.
2. Should I let my bird roam freely in my home?
Yes, just make sure your house is completely bird proof and you are available to supervise.
3. How often should I check and update my bird-proofing setup?
Whenever you bring new home décor or move your furniture. You should also take a look at the beginning of new weather. To be more careful a monthly check can work well.
4. Which birds need a bird proof house?
All the pet birds, big or small, need a bird proof house. Although big birds are easier to handle but the hazards and chances of getting harmed are equal.
Conclusion
Bird proofing your UK house is very crucial, and mindful task. With proper guideline and awareness, you can make it happen. Removing harmful elements from each room of your house, and creating a joyful bird safe place is all your feathered fellow wants from you. Let them enjoy with you.
Have a bird proof set up at your house? Or want to share any interesting playtime story about your pet. Feel free to comment.
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