Brace Yourself for Winter

Winter can be a chilly time, if not downright cold! Most bird owners are unaware of the toll winter takes on our avian companions. This Winter Checklist will help you determine the potential problem areas in your home.

Check for drafty windows

Birds with compromised immune systems can be greatly affected by drafty windows. If your bird’s cage is near a drafty window, try moving your avian companion to a warmer area in your home. Some drafts can be avoided by placing a cotton blanket on the back side of your bird’s cage. Please note: it would be a good idea to show your feathered friend the blanket first. If your bird shows a sense of fear, expose your bird to the blanket a little at a time so they become accustomed to this cloth cover being close to their cage.

Turning up the heat

Before you turn on the heat, remember to ventilate the room first. Dust that has accumulated over the seasons may cause it to burn on the heating elements. Be sure to ventilate the area before turning on the heating system.

Most homes are very dry during the winter months. Forced hot air systems will deplete the humidity level in your home by approximately 30 percent. The lack of humidity can affect the health of your bird. If your bird is affected by low humidity, you’ll see signs of constant scratching of the nares (nostrils), sneezing and shaking of the head.

Warm, dry air can leave your bird’s sinuses dehydrated. A good humidifier in your bird’s living area will keep the air moist. Grey Feather Toys offers Slant Fin Humidifiers which have UV Protection.

If you choose to bathe your bird, bathe them during the morning hours so your bird will be nice and dry by sunset, when temperatures drop.

Note: Be sure to check your heating systems for leaks. A good carbon monoxide detector is highly recommended. Also, never use heaters that have Teflon. Teflon, when heated to a certain temperature, will release a gas. This gas is highly toxic to birds and WILL cause death.

Be sure to keep your bird’s cage away from heating ducts. Check your air ducts and air filters, cleaning them regularly. This will help keep your heating/air cleaning system running efficiently as well as keeping the airborne dust and bacteria to a minimum. I recommend using Avicine (also known as Oxine) to clean air vents. Grey Feather Toy Creations carries this amazing multi-purpose cleaner/disinfectant, which can be used for cages and household surfaces, as well as fruits and vegetables.

Dehydration of birds commonly occurs during the winter. Be sure to change the water frequently during the day to ensure a fresh, clean supply of water is always available to your feathered companion.

Because it’s cold outside, there is little fresh air ventilating the house during winter. Please do not use candles, incense, air and carpet fresheners. They contain volatile oils that are toxic to birds.

Loss of Power

Keep your carriers and blankets close at hand in case of power outages. Post emergency telephone numbers, stock up on bird food, bottled water, sprouts, and keep non-perishable foods available.

Stay warm and don’t forget to share that warmth with your feathered companion!

Monica Gonzalez
Published 10/27/04, Revised 2/24/05
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