Taking Care of Your Pet Bird’s Beak

Do you share your home with a feathered friend? You’ve undoubtedly noticed by now how important your pet’s beak is to her. Here, a Niagara Falls, ON veterinarian gives you a few tips for keeping your bird’s beak in tip-top shape.

Every bird requires regular beak trims to prevent the beak’s point from getting too sharp and long. Although some bird owners do perform trims at home, it’s usually safest to have a veterinary professional do it at your local animal hospital. Professional nail trims can also be performed to keep your bird’s claws from becoming long, sharp, and painful. Call your vet to find out more about the beak and nail trimming procedures and set up an appointment.

Conditioning perches are small objects, usually made of pumice, clay, or stone, that are fitted inside a bird’s cage. These allow a bird to rub the beak against a hard material, keeping the surface clean and the beak in prime condition. Plus, they double as a fun perch for your bird’s entertainment. Conditioning perches are widely available at pet supply stores, retail outlets, and veterinarian’s offices; ask your veterinary professional for a recommendation on a good brand and type.

Bird toys allow your feathered companion to let out some aggression, entertain herself when you’re not around, and have some good old plain fun. They also blunt the beak tip a bit, extending the time needed between beak trims. Try rotating your bird’s toy selection in and out so she doesn’t get bored, and ask your veterinarian what toys are best for your pet.

Remember that a high-quality avian diet is essential for your bird’s beak health, as well as her overall body condition and well-being. The bulk of your bird’s diet will consist of pellet food, supplemented by fresh fruits and vegetables. Consult your veterinarian for a recommendation on a pellet food, and ask for a list of bird-safe fruits, veggies, and other foods.

As with any pet, regular visits to the veterinarian are essential for your bird. Your pet’s beak condition and overall health can be evaluated, and your vet can catch any problems before they develop into more serious issues. Many bird owners have their pet’s beak trimmed during the regularly scheduled checkup. Call your Niagara Falls, ON veterinarian’s office today to make your feathered friend’s next appointment.