How to Keep Pet Birds from Getting Lice

There are many problems that come with having pet birds. Many of the problems occur because of the type of bird most people choose as pets. Many birds do not have problems with lice. When a bird does have lice it only usually affects that bird and not people in the home.

• Keep a small bowl of sand in your bird’s cage. This will allow your pet bird to dust itself off as it see fit.

• Keep a bowl of fresh water in your bird’s cage. This water should be separate from the pet’s drinking water. All birds love to play around in water. The extra bowl of water is so the bird can take a bath and preen its feathers afterwards. While the bird preen its feathers it releases natural oils that protects itself from lice.

• Use a spray bottle to wet the birds so they will smooth and clean their feathers. You can use this method if you prefer not to set an extra bowl of water in your bird's cage.

• Purchase commercial lice sprays for your bird. Most people use these as the last resort when it comes to their pet bird. Spraying chemicals on your bird can damage their eyes. Be sure to cover the bird’s head completely when spraying them.

• Keep your bird's cage as clean as possible. Make sure you remove all droppings at the first sign you see them. This will keep insects from gathering in your bird’s cage. You do not want your bird walking around in it’s droppings it could lead to parasites.