Tag: hazards

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Warning: Halloween Candy

Candy is everywhere this time of year, and once again we would like to remind bird owners to be cautious and keep it where birds can’t reach it. Chocolate is not only a high calorie and high fat item, but it also contains Theobromine. Theobromine is a compound from the cacao plant from which chocolate is produced. In birds (and other pets like cats and dogs), this compound metabolizes slowly, so a build up can lead to theobromine poisoning.

If you suspect your bird has eaten chocolate, call an avian vet immediately. Signs of distress may include: vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, hyperactivity, heart arrhythmias, dark colored droppings, or death.

It is best to not feed any overly sugared items or other candies to your birds- it is unnecessary and could cause health problems. Instead, feed them treats specifically for birds, nuts, or fresh fruits and vegetables as a treat.

The best way to prevent your bird from eating candies and chocolate is to keep it safely out of reach. Even if left on a table, parrots are notorious for their curiosity and can easily tear into a candy bag or wrapper.

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Christmas Tree Safety

As pine trees are popping up in many homes in preparation for Christmas, it is important that parrot owners know that Christmas trees (real and fake) do not make good play areas for their birds.

  • Cut branches from wreaths or trees should not be used as foraging material or toys. Pine needles in particular are sharp, not easily digestible, and may contain saps and residues that can be irritating to their eyes, skin, and digestive system.
  • Some trees may be sprayed with chemicals and flame retardants.
  • Other concerns can be lights, which pose an electrical hazard for birds that like to chew.
  • Ornaments can also be knocked down and broken, and sometimes older or metal ornaments can pose a heavy metal toxicity risk if a parrot decides to chew on it.
  • Fake snow aerosols can be harmful for bird respiratory systems, and toxic if ingested.
  • Tinsels and ribbons can be a health hazard if chewed or ingested.

    • Please keep yourself and your birds safe this holiday season!

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    Toxic Plants

    Gardens are blooming and growing, and that means homes are being decorated with houseplants and flowers. These are beautiful additions to any room, but with pets it is important to make sure they are non-toxic varieties. Birds love to chew and tear up foliage, so it is important to make sure they don’t get into trouble. The following are some of the more popular and common plants that are not pet-safe; a more comprehensive list can be found on our FAQ section.

    Birds of Paradise

    These attractive plants are popular in yards and gift floral arrangements.
    Bulb Flowers

    These popular spring flowers include daffodils, amaryllis, hyacinth, and irises.
    Ferns

    Not all ferns are dangerous, but with so many varieties it is better to err on the side of caution.

    Ivy

    Not all ivies are dangerous, but with so many varieties it is better to err on the side of caution.
    Lillies

    Another popular holiday and bouquet flower, these and peace lillies should be avoided.
    Philodendrons

    There are many types of philodendrons, all of which should be avoided.
    Poinsetta

    As one of the most popular houseplants in the world, these are dangerous when ingested.
    Rhododendrons

    There are many varieties of rhododendrons, like azaleas, which are toxic.
    Tomato Plant

    Tomatoes are included because many people grow them in kitchen windows. The actual ripe tomato is okay, but stems and leaves are toxic.
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    Holiday Safety Tips

    There are many household items that are quintessential to the holidays, but we may not realize that they can be hazardous to the health of our pets.

    Candy/Chocolate – Many baked goods and sweets for the holidays may contain chocolate, so it is important to keep a close eye on these platters and remind guests not to give your birds any “snacks” just incase!

    Tinsel – Birds love shiny materials, but tinsel should be avoided as it can lead to digestive issues if ingested.

    Fake Snow – This decorative item can be very toxic if ingested.

    Holiday Plants – The most common holiday plants: mistletoe, poinsettia, and holly, can be toxic if chewed on or ingested by your bird.

    Christmas trees – Some bird owners have let their parrots play in undecorated trees, but one must be cautious of sap, pesticides, and flame retardant sprays.

    Ornaments – Some older ornaments may contain lead, and others are made of glass. Also, your bird will think they all look like fun toys to destroy!

    Christmas lights – Some lights may get hot, or exposed wires may pose an electrocution hazard if chewed on.

    Candles / Potpourri – Candles, scented oils and perfumes can irritate a bird’s respiratory system.