# Bird Care in the UK — Quick answer

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/bird-care-uk): Bird Care in the UK — Quick answer. UK pet birds need a species-correct diet (not seed alone), the largest suitable cage, daily out-of-cage exercise where safe, and an avian vet registered before illness strikes. Seek same-day care for breathing difficulty, bleeding, or sudden lethargy.

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/bird-care-uk): Bird Care in the UK — Housing and enrichment. Birds need horizontal flight space, varied perch diameters, and safe toys. Position cages away from kitchens (Teflon fumes are toxic), draughts and direct sun. Cover at night for rest. Clean daily — droppings and old food harbour infection.

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/bird-care-uk): Bird Care in the UK — Diet. | Species | Diet basics | |---------|-------------| | Budgies & cockatiels | Quality pellets, limited seed, fresh veg | | Parrots | Pellets, vegetables, occasional nuts — no avocado | Fresh water daily. Cuttlefish bone supplies calcium for budgies and cockatiels.

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/bird-care-uk): Bird Care in the UK — Common health problems. - Respiratory disease — tail bobbing, sneezing, discharge - Egg binding — straining, weakness in females - Feather plucking — stress, boredom or underlying disease - Psittacosis — zoonotic; vet diagnosis required

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/bird-care-uk): Bird Care in the UK — When to call the vet. Emergencies: open-mouth breathing, collapse, bleeding, egg binding, or not eating for 24 hours. Many practices refer to specialist avian clinics — ask your vet for local options.

Source: https://pethealth.org.uk/health/bird-care-uk