Many people think that it’s easy to care for birds. However, there are many nuances that suggest otherwise. For example, it’s important to consider where to put the cage. It’s crucial to avoid keeping your bird’s cage in areas that might endanger them. In this guide, we’ll look at unsafe places for bird cages.
1. Direct Sunlight, Which Can Cause Overheating
Birds need Vitamin D to absorb calcium and other minerals. This is very important for wing and feather health. The sun is the main source of Vitamin D for birds, but it’s a little trickier than putting their cage by the window. Pet birds can overheat and suffer heat stroke quickly, so it’s better to put the cage in a shaded area. Still, this can prove tricky because different external factors will influence how much sun your bird can handle.
First, how hot is the temperature? The weather in California or Florida is very different from Alaska. Another point to consider is that bigger birds like macaws can usually tolerate a bit more heat than canaries or budgies. Some experts say it’s acceptable to place a bigger bird’s cage in front of a window for about five minutes daily to give them a Vitamin D boost. Otherwise, it’s better to place it in a quiet shaded area. If your bird shows signs of heat stroke, immediately soak it in room-temperature water––not ice-cold water, which can cause shock.
2. Too Close to Cats
Unfortunately, domestic cats will always see small pet birds as snacks. That’s why it’s essential to keep them away from the cage as much as possible. Even if your feline friend can’t access the cage, they’ll lurk outside, which could stress your bird. In some cases, the fear may even cause your canary or budgie to suffer a heart attack. Cat saliva is also very dangerous for birds because of the harmful bacteria within it. Another issue is that an enterprising kitty might knock the birdcage over.
It’s better to hang the cage out of reach, so the cat can’t extend its paws inside. Keep it away from furniture and appliances, so the cat won’t climb on top of them to get the birds. Don’t underestimate a cat’s ability to jump! Also, discipline your feline friends if they get too close for comfort. A loud sharp “no” will teach them that you won’t tolerate this behavior. Never leave a cat alone in a room with a birdcage because it’s a recipe for disaster.
3. Kitchens Can Expose Birds to Smoke
One of the most common mistakes new bird owners make is hanging their cages in the kitchen. They think it’s a good idea because kitchens typically are hives of activity. After all, birds can suffer from loneliness and anxiety if there’s nobody around them. But unfortunately, many people have learned the hard way that kitchens are the wrong place for birds. This is because kitchens produce toxic fumes, which can overtake a bird’s respiratory system.
Teflon pans are one of the most notorious causes of premature pet birth deaths. They release harmful chemicals that are also bad for human health. These fumes can suffocate canaries and budgies. It’s a horrible way to go and it’s very traumatic for the owners, too. Always keep bird cages in a well-ventilated place away from intense heat.
4. Poorly Ventilated Garages Can Suffocate Birds
Garages are also awful places to put bird cages. Most of them don’t have insulation, so the temperatures can be too extreme for the pet birds. Another problem is that the doors constantly open and close, so they’re typically very drafty. The sudden rush of cold air can cause health problems for your birds. We also advise against keeping your bird’s cage near doors into your home.
The loud noises in the garage can also be very upsetting for the birds. Another issue is that vehicles release huge amounts of carbon dioxide. Garages contain these fumes so it’s very dangerous for your avian pets. Finally, there’s a good chance that the birds will experience loneliness because there won’t be much activity around them.
5. Small Children Can Accidentally Injure Birds
Small children and birds mix like oil and water. It doesn’t work very well and usually ends badly. If you have infants or toddlers, you should secure the birdcage far from their prying hands. The child may not mean any harm, but they could knock the cage over and potentially release the bird. It’s very difficult and stressful to catch a freed bird. Furthermore, a free-roaming bird could face predators, like house cats.
Even worse is the possibility of the child grabbing the bird and squeezing it too tight. Birds have very light and delicate bodies. They can’t handle much pressure on their skeletal systems. Owners should bird-proof the cage in case something goes wrong. Always supervise young children in their vicinity. Eventually, you will be able to teach proper handling.
6. Bathrooms Can Cause Unpleasant Conditions
Bathrooms are also bad places to keep birds. First, the bird may feel lonely because there won’t be much human activity around them. Remember, parrots need attention more than other birds. But the main risk is the number of chemicals and hazardous materials around them. Shampoo, hairspray, deodorants, perfumes, and soaps can be very toxic to bird health.
Another issue is that the bathroom humidity will change rapidly if family members take hot showers. It’s much wiser to keep them in a living room where there’s plenty of activity but fewer risks.
