Birds, like people, can become ill or get injured. To prepare yourself to care for your new pet, take the time to assemble a first aid kit before you bring your new pal home. As its name indicates, first aid is what you do first to help your feathered friend until you can get her to your avian veterinarian.
Kits are commercially available, or you can make your own to keep in a plastic container or lunch box. Your kit should contain the following items:
- Triple antibiotic ointment (non-greasy) for minor cut or scrapes
- Artificial-tears solution to flush the eyes
- Bandages. Purchase an assortment of rolled cotton bandages to cover wounds. Use tape that sticks to itself but not to your bird's feathers to secure them.
- Cotton balls and swabs for applying just about everything
- Eye wipes to clean eye discharge
- Grease-cutting dishwashing detergent (mild) for cleaning wounds
- Hydrogen peroxide solution (3%)
- Locking forceps (5 inch), or needle-nose pliers to remove broken blood feathers
- Latex gloves
- Sanitary wipes for cleaning your bird's wounds and yourself
- Styptic powder to stop bleeding on toenails
- Syringes (large and small, no needle) for flushing wounds or administering medication
- Small nail scissors
- Tweezers
Additional Items to Keep Nearby
- Bird bath or wash
- Towels (for restraint)
- Penlight
- Transport cage
- Quick energy and electrolyte supplements
Remember, many illnesses that affect your pet bird are not readily apparent to most bird owners. If you suspect something is wrong with you bird or your bird has an accident resulting in an injury, administer first aid and go immediately to your veterinarian for advanced treatment - your swift and prepared response can save your bird's life.