Parakeet Questions And Answers

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Parakeet Questions And Answers

The parakeet is from the Melopsittacus undalatus family. They are a small type of seed eating, long tailed parrot that have been favorites among bird enthusiasts for a very long time. Also, they are small in size and somewhat less destructive than larger breeds. So, they are easier to keep ad require somewhat less maintenance. If you are considering adopting one on of these intelligent birds, we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked parakeet questions answers to help you take care of your new bird. The decision to adopt a parakeet is an important one. So, take your time and read through the FAQs before you do.

How Do You Know If Your Parakeet Is Male Or Female?

Determining the sex of your parakeet is not as difficult as many people think. However, it can nonetheless be confusing and it is easy to make a mistake. If you want to be 100% sure of the sex of your parakeet, you should bring your bird to the avian vet, and he or she will do a blood test.

If you prefer to prefer to determine the sex of your budgie visually, you should know that young female parakeets will have a cere that is light blue or white. Similarly, males tend to have ceres of various shades of pink or purple. Also, you should be aware that the overall health condition will affect the color of the cere, as well as whether the bird is ready to mate.

How Do I Know I’m Getting A Healthy Parakeet?

Before you even start caring for your pet parakeet, you have to choose the right one for you. This means you should buy only from a reputable breeder. Always check the area they keep the birds if it is clean. Furthermore, you should check to see if the birds are generally well taken care of.

Make sure you choose a bright-eyed and lively bird. Also, check that there is no crusting around its cere (spectacles around the beak). In addition, you should examine the vent (spot from where the birds defecate) and make sure it is clear. If the vent is dirty it is a sign of digestive problems.

Above all, let an avian veterinarian check your pet before bringing it home. It is always wise to have a professional check the bird for any health issues that needs to be addressed and treated.

Should I Buy More Than One Parakeet?

Parakeets are social birds. As a result, you might want to consider getting them in pairs. However, if you only want one, then you should be able to spend quality time with it most of the day. Because if you don’t, your bird will get lonely.

What’s The Best Housing For A Parakeet?

The cage you need to buy should measure at least 18x24x24 inches or not less than 70 cm in length and 40 cm in width. Also, choose a cage with horizontal bars that the birds can climb on. Likewise, make sure that the space between the bars is less than half an inch so the bird’s head won’t get stuck.

Get cages made with stainless steel or any non-galvanized materials. This is due to the fact that many types of metals are poisonous to parakeets. In addition, rectangular cages tend to be best for parakeets. This is for the reason that cages with these shapes tend to have less flying room than other cages.

How Should I Set Up A Parakeet Cage?

First of all, you should line the cage for hygienic purposes. Newspapers work well for this. Another possibility would be paper towels, but they are more expensive. Furthermore, remember to change the lining regularly because parakeets defecate every 15-20 minutes. In addition, you should place at least one perch inside the cage. It is best if from natural materials such as wood or bamboo. This is for the reason that birds need a place to sit and rest their feet.

Another important point is to mount the food bowls and water drinkers on the bars away from the bottom of the cage. The reason for this is so that the birds will not step on the food. This will therefore help prevent contamination.

What Food Do Parakeets Eat?

This is one of the most common parakeet questions and answers. Bird seeds and pellet blends are a mainstay in the parakeet’s diet. Because they are less processed than other types of foods, pellets tend to be the more complete and nutritional option. Also, parakeets eat a variety of fruits and vegetables. In addition, you can give them a treat once a week, like some meal worms.

Ask your veterinarian what the best foods for your parakeet. However, do take note that foods like potatoes, parsley, avocado and fruit pits are harmful to parakeets’ health. Also, make sure to provide clean, fresh water. And above all, make sure that the water bowl or water drinkers are clean.

Finally, if you provide fresh food to your parakeets, never provide it two days in a row due to possible dietary problems.

How Do I Help Parakeets Maintain Hygiene?

Pet birds love to preen and clean. Therefore, you can offer a warm bird bath every 2 to 3 times a week. Also, you could refresh them with a spray mist. Another effective solution is an extra water bowl inside the cage where they could bathe or cool themselves during hot days.

How Do Parakeets Play And Get Exercise?

Provide your parakeet with toys such as bungee ropes for their mental stimulation. Also, remember that parakeets enjoy toys with mirrors and ladders where they can climb on. In addition, you should give you bird time out of its cage regularly. Letting your bird out of its cage to roam and fly around at least 10-15 minutes a day helps boost its immune system.

Parakeet Questions And Answers About Health

Being observant is the key to maintaining your parakeet’s health. Therefore, make sure to note any changes like being lethargic (tired all the time) or being at the bottom of the cage all the time. These changes could be a sign of a deeper problem that needs treatment immediately.

Parakeets can get sick from inhaling toxic fumes from household cleaners and cigarette smoke. In addition, it can get sick due to poor hygiene and improper diet. Another point to remember is that parakeets are more prone to getting sick when they are molting. Due to this fact, you should take extra care of them during this period.

What Are Symptoms Of Illness In Parakeets?

Use the quality time you spend with your bird to examine it for possible symptoms of illness. Almost all of these symptoms are hard to spot at times. So, take your time, be thorough, and when in doubt, ask an avian vet.

Rapid movement of feathers
Partially closed eyes
Also, Blinking more than usual
Opened mouth suggests shortness of breath
Hunched standing and drooped wings. This may indicate fracture, arthritis, or bruising. Also, it may even indicate nerve damage.

Also remember that parakeets also tend to pluck their feathers which causes bleeding. If this happens, you can stop the bleeding by lightly pressing on the area with a clean cloth. Similarly, if you notice blood anywhere in the cage, it’s time to call the avian vet.

Furthermore, during night time, cover their cage with a cloth. This will prevent them from having night terrors (being scared of the dark) and makes them feel safe. Similarly, it will help them sleep better.

Parakeet Questions And Answers – Conclusion

We hope this list of frequently asked parakeet questions and answers has been helpful. Use this information to take excellent care of your new avian companion!