Household Hazards for Birds

Do you have a pet bird? If so, you’ll need to take some steps to make your home safe for your winged friend. Birds are very small and fragile, and can easily get hurt! Read on as an Aldershot, ON vet lists some household hazards that can endanger Polly.

Many birds can drown in just a few inches of water. Open toilets, uncovered fish tanks, filled sinks or tubs, and even pots of water or soup on the stove are all treacherous to birds.

Polly has very sensitive lungs, and can get sick from inhaling fumes that are harmless—or even pleasant—to us. Do not expose your pet to fumes from things like perfume, aerosol, paint, air fresheners, potpourri, and scented candles. Cigarette smoke and chemical fumes are also hazardous. Even cooking fumes are unsafe, as many types of cookware emit vapors that are harmful to birds.

Fans are extremely dangerous to your winged buddy! Make sure to turn all fans off before letting Polly out to play.

The kitchen can be a treacherous place for a cute little bird. Polly could accidentally fly into cutlery, or land on a hot pot or burner. You’ll also need to be careful about leaving food out. Things like grapes, hard candies, and chocolate are toxic to our feathered friends! Ask your vet for more information.

Birds often mistake windows and mirrors for openings. This can be quite dangerous! Polly can seriously injure herself if she flies into the glass. Use protective coverings and hanging plants to help your pet recognize the window or mirror as a barrier.

Dogs and cats are wonderful pets, but they really aren’t safe playmates for Polly. We know, it’s adorable seeing Polly sitting on Fido’s head or cuddling up with Fluffy. However, never underestimate your dog or cat’s natural instincts. It only takes one playful swipe of a paw to seriously injure your feathered pal! Keep your furry buddies in a separate area when you let your bird out to play.

These are just a few of the most common dangers. Wires and cords, small or sharp objects, chemicals, medication, and plastic bags are also unsafe. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Please call us, your Aldershot, ON vet clinic, for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!