Self Help

Birds are not the neatest of pets, and cleaning up after your feathered friend is one of those never-ending jobs you love to hate. Daily quick cleanups make the thorough weekly or monthly cleanings less of a chore.

Daily Cleaning Routine

Establishing an everyday cleaning routine will not only reduce your work in the long run but also provide you with an opportunity to keep an eye out for any signs of illness that may develop in your bird.

1. Use hot water and a scouring sponge to wipe food and feces off the cage, perch, and toys.
2. Change the paper lining the bottom of the cage.
3. Wash the food and water bowls at least once daily with hot, soapy water and rinse thoroughly. You may use a disinfectant provided that it is bird-safe. Be sure that the food bowl is completely dry before adding seeds or pellets, to prevent moldiness.
4. Keep a hand-held vacuum or a broom handy to clean up debris that has fallen from the cage to the floor.
5. You can minimize “fallout” with a cage apron. For easier cleanup on carpeted floors, place an office chair mat under the cage.

Weekly/Monthly Cleaning Routine

Whether you need to do a thorough cleaning weekly or monthly will depend on the size of your bird or the number of birds you have. Make it easier on yourself and your birds by relocating them to another cage while you are cleaning the primary cage.

1. Remove the cage bottom or turn the cage upside down to shake out seeds and loose droppings.
2. Place the cage in the shower and run hot water over it. Scrub the cage with hot water, dish detergent, and a scouring sponge or brush. Do the same with toys and accessories. Use sandpaper to remove dried-on matter if necessary. You can also use white vinegar or a nontoxic enzyme-based cleaner to soften droppings. If necessary, allow the tough spots to soak for 30 minutes.
3. Once it’s clean, rinse the cage thoroughly to remove all soap residue. Then spray the cage, toys, and accessories with a nontoxic disinfectant. Rinse thoroughly to remove all traces of disinfectant. Allow the cage to dry completely.
4. Empty and wash the cage apron, and then wash and disinfect the floor below the cage and nearby walls if necessary. Line the cage with fresh paper. Use several layers of paper lining that can be removed daily, one at a time, as they get dirty.
5. Finally, refill the food and water bowls and return your bird to its clean home.