DIET:

1. Feeding only seed diets is not complete.
2. Pellet diets are the most complete- Zupreem Diets are most recommended.
3. Feeding fresh vegetables such as grated carrots, leafy greens (collards, some spinach and green leafy lettuce), peas, zucchini, green beans, and bean sprouts are fine. Only feed small amounts of broccoli- may cause thyroid problems.
4. Do not feed ice berg lettuce as a staple diet because it's 95% water and is not nutritious enough.
5. Can feed 8-12 grain breads, but no butter or toppings.
6. Whenever feeding fresh foods, it must be changed every 6-8 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
7. Fresh water should be given daily. If a water bottle is used, make sure your bird is using it.
8. Calcium supplements such as a cuddle bone can be used.
9. Grit may be given to birds that do not break open the seed (finches and canaries). Seed cracking birds do not need grit.

HOUSING/ENVIRONMENT:
1. Temperature should stay between 75-80 degrees F. The lowest temp. should be 70 degrees F. Birds are very sensitive to cold temperatures and can easily acquire upper respiratory infections or colds.
2. Having a UV-light (Vita-light) on for 12 hours per day is highly recommended to simulate normal sunlight which is needed for healthier bones and feathering. You can use a timer to maintain a consistent 12 hours per day.
3. Their cage size should be big enough to allow full wing & tail span. The depth and width is more important than height because birds fly across more than straight up.
4. The feeding dishes should be open for crested birds (cockatiels and cockatoos) and closed for non crested birds (finches and canaries).
5. Toys are fine but make sure they don't overcrowd their tail or wing space. Also don't get anything that has small parts that they can swallow.
6. News paper or paper towels can be used for the bottom of the cage. Make sure to clean at least every other day.
7. Perches need to be different sizes to prevent any callous formation to their feet. Ropes (make sure to always keep clean) and clean/dry natural branches can be used.

PREVENTATIVE HEALTH CARE:
1. Since companion birds do not receive any vaccinations, it is recommended that they have recheck examinations every six months.
2. Birds also hide their sickness very well and when they do show signs of being sick, it can be too late to treat them. This is why it is recommended to do an initial blood work up to have a base line to compare with later. Finding liver or kidney disease early through the blood work is a key in catching problems early. Can also test for Psittacosis.
3. Doing fecal cultures/tests for common diseases such as Psittacosis, Adenovirus and Orthomyxovirus is very important because early treatment can prevent death. Psittacosis and Orthomyxovirus are contagious diseases to people and other animals which makes them a state reportable condition.
4. If your bird has diarrhea or watery stools for more 48 hours, put Saran wrap at the bottom of the cage to collect a full fecal sample. The sample should be 24 hours fresh. If fecal sample was collected the night before, please refrigerate until it is brought in.