The Pet Charity Guide For Budgerigars

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The Pet Charity guide to caring for
BUDGERIGARS

Budgerigars are friendly, cheerful companions ideal for all age groups. They are available in attractive and sometimes unusual colours, and live for around 7-8 years.

The Budgerigar is a member of the parrot family and originates from Australia. It is a relativity simple and inexpensive pet to keep.

General care
Feathers: Feathers should not be allowed to become too dry. You can use a suitable fine mist spray together with a special solution to spray on, your pet shop can advise you on suitable products. Some budgies do enjoy a bath but not all of them.
Colds: The bird will be listless, with feathers fluffed up and wheezing if it catches a cold. Keep him warm, do not bath and consult with your vet immediately.
Diarrhoea: This is commonly caused by an excess of green, mouldy or contaminated food, a change in diet or lack of fresh water. Keep him warm, make sure he has plenty of fresh water and consult your vet.
Mites: This is a parasite that feeds on birds’ blood, causing itching and weight loss. Mites are easy to destroy with a suitable spray and your pet shop or vet will advise.
Beaks and nails: An iodine block can help keep your bird’s beak trim. If you suspect your budgie’s nails and beak are too long seek expert advice.
Feather plucking: This can be due to a poor diet, lack of exercise or stimulation. Spend time with your budgie and provide it with toys for exercise and entertainment. If the condition persists consult your vet.

Choosing your Budgerigar
A healthy Budgerigar should be:
• Bright-eyed and alert
• Have no signs of discharge from the eyes or nostrils
• Have a clean vent area
• Feathers should be smooth, flush to the body and not be fluffed up
• Should have...

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...calcium and helps to keep the beak worn down and maintain strong bones.

Bird specific vitamin supplements are available and may be added to the drinking water or mixed with fruit or vegetables.

Fresh water should always be available.

Shopping List
Cage and cage stand
Cage cover
Food
Seed pot and seed guard
Water pot
Perches
Bath
Toys
Sand/sand sheets
Grit
Cuttlefish
Mineral block
Pet safe disinfectant
Budgie care book

Remember – you should never release your pet into the wild.

This leaflet is produced by The Pet Charity, a national charity which promotes the joy and benefits of pet ownership.

The Pet Charity www.thepetcharity.org.uk Registered Charity No: 1052488

This leaflet has been produced with the help of The Budgerigar Society. If you require further help or advice please visit www.budgerigarsociety.com

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