Many people find birds fascinating. And some feathered friends can not only live with "their" human for a very long time, but also form a close bond with them. But what do you actually need to ensure that everything is perfectly prepared when your feathered roommates move in?
The most important thing is, of course, the birdcage, the indoor aviary where almost everything happens. This is the place you should set up in the best possible way for your feathered roommates. The specific size, color, and shape can vary and should be chosen according to your taste and the type of bird you have. And here's what belongs in a good home for birds:
You can decorate the interior of the aviary with various perches at different levels, a bathing area, and toys. Less is often more: it is better to offer only a few toys that you can swap out from time to time.
In addition to the furnished aviary, you will also need a transport box for traveling.
You should keep at least two birds of the same species, as a single bird will be lonely and this does not constitute species-appropriate and animal-friendly care. The size of the home should be such that the bird can fly around a little without bumping into anything with its wings.
The birdcage is also a place of retreat and should offer protection so that the inhabitants can relax when they want to.
The most important thing for you as the owner is to keep the environment free of hazards and to make it suitable for birds. Birds like to have a good overview, so the aviary should be positioned accordingly. In addition, the space should offer a certain amount of protection, yet still be open and provide enough light and air. It is advisable to place the aviary high enough so that the bird can meet you at eye level and does not feel threatened from above.
Sources of disturbance such as televisions or radios should not be in the immediate vicinity. Birds perceive sounds and images much more intensely than we humans do. Changing light sources, flickering, and loud noises are pure stress for the animal. Daylight ensures a healthy hormone and energy balance. In the darker months of the year, it may even be advisable to install a special UV lamp. In summer, the same applies to birds as to other pets: a shady spot, sufficient refreshment, and a fresh breeze are essential. But beware of drafts! A bird's place by an open window is definitely not the right choice.
Position the bird's home so that it can land safely even when flying freely and so that no objects can fall on the animal or its home.
Birds such as budgies, beos, and parrots can not only learn to talk, they are also capable of performing small tasks. With enough patience and a few training tricks, humans and birds can have a lot of fun together. And the results are often impressive!
Inflammation of the testicles and epididymis, which usually occur together and are medically referred to as orchitis and epididymitis, are rare but can lead to reduced or even complete infertility in stallions.
Leptospirosis is a contagious infectious disease of dogs that is widespread worldwide and can also be transmitted to humans, which is why it is also referred to as a zoonosis. This bacterial disease was first discovered in dogs in 1852. Almost half a century later, it was observed at a dog show in Stuttgart, which is why it was initially called Stuttgart dog disease. In Germany, leptospirosis is a notifiable animal disease.
Both dogs and cats can have allergic reactions to certain ingredients in their food. This causes the immune system to overreact to certain ingredients in the food. Between 1 and 5% of all allergic skin diseases in dogs are caused by food allergies. Animals of all breeds and ages are affected. As in humans, an increase in allergies can also be observed in dogs and cats.
To the left and right of the anus, dogs have two anal sacs, which contain the anal glands. The foul-smelling secretion produced by these glands is collected in the anal sacs and serves as the dog's individual scent mark, which is released with each bowel movement. Inflammation of the anal sacs can be very unpleasant and painful for dogs.
Lip chewing, medically known as cheylitis, describes a common condition in domestic guinea pigs characterized by weeping eczema around the lips and corners of the mouth, which in advanced stages can spread to the mouth, nose, and entire face.
The puppy has moved in and everyone is thrilled! This is an exciting time, when your new family member has a lot to discover and learn. Of course, as a new dog owner, you also have a responsibility to ensure a good start to a happy future together. One of the most important tasks is to house-train your dog as quickly as possible.
When a cat is in heat, it can be exhausting for the people who live with her, because she will suddenly change completely. However, her instinct to mate also causes her distress.
Scintigraphy uses substances labeled with weak radioactive isotopes to visualize pathological changes in the body. The image produced is called a scintigram.
Dental disease is one of the most common reasons for visits to the vet for both rabbits and guinea pigs. Since their teeth grow throughout their lives but are not sufficiently worn down in their current living conditions, pathological changes to the teeth often occur.
Syncope refers to fainting or circulatory collapse that occurs suddenly without warning and leads to a temporary loss of consciousness in animals. The dog collapses suddenly and shows no signs of life. After a short time, it regains consciousness and behaves as it did before the syncope.
Ectropion is a malposition of the eyelid that mainly affects the lower eyelid. The outer edge of the eyelid is turned outward and hangs down, which is why it is also referred to as a "drooping eyelid." This malposition prevents the eyelid from closing normally, leaving the eye permanently slightly open.
