As with most pets, there are many products available today for the enhancement of the health of your finches. Suggestions below may serve as a guide for the first time owner.
Finch Checklist
Housing:
The cage should be in place before the finch arrives home. Finches depend on flight as their source of exercise; the cage should be large enough to permit it. Flight cages are also very desirable for one or more pairs of finches. Ask your Petland Discounts sales person for the design best suited to your finch.
Cage Paper:
Cage papers are available in a variety of sizes and pre-cut to fit your cage, should be placed on the bottom of the cage for easy clean up of droppings. Cage liners should be changed daily to maintain cleanliness.
Cage Covers:
Dark and quiet contribute to a good night’s rest for your bird. A cage cover is helps birds sleep, keeps them quiet and protects them from drafts. A cage cover is also a good tool when trying to calm your bird.
Perches:
Several perches wide enough so that the toes do not wrap around each other, but not so wide that the bird cannot get his toes ½ of the way around, is a good guideline when selecting perches.
Food:
There are several good brands of food found in a Petland Discounts. Be sure you are feeding a complete, well balanced diet for your pet bird species. Birds eat small amounts all day long, so make sure fresh food and water are always available.
Treats:
There are several brands and types of fruit and nut treats that will give your finch some variety in his diet.
Vitamins:
Liquid vitamin supplements help assure a continued supply of necessary vitamins. An adequate intake of vitamins aids in proper growth, maintenance and general health.
Minerals:
Cuttlebone is essential to the health of a bird. Calcium is especially important for bone formation as well as molting. It is aids in the prevention of beak overgrowth.
Toys:
Birds are intelligent animals and need mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Finches typically do not play with toys, but they enjoy mirrors.
Books:
There are several books about budgies/cockatiels that can give you good insight into the care and habits of your particular bird.
