What indicates a cage needs immediate cleaning?
Written by
John Williams
Reviewed by
Prof. Henry Webster, Ph.D.Swiftly recognizing the signs of a problem helps avert a potential bird health emergency. I recall a time when we assisted a client who called about a patch of green mold on a severely neglected cage. At this point, the client's parrot was showing labored breathing within hours. Your attentiveness can prevent a crisis. Immediate cleaning is necessary when certain signs of trouble appear unexpectedly.
Organic Hazards
- Visible mold growth: Scrub with undiluted vinegar immediately
- Slimy food residue: Disinfect all surfaces within 2 hours
- Insect activity: Remove birds and deep clean immediately
Health Warning Signs
- Ammonia odors: Ventilate area and clean cage immediately
- Droppings changes: Clean cage and consult vet within 24 hours
- Caked droppings: Soak and scrub before bacteria multiply
Identify Mold Growth Mold growth may manifest as green or black, fuzzy patches. Dangerous fungi grow in these patches. They release toxins that can cause immediate liver damage. Clean the area with full-strength vinegar immediately. Throw out all porous accessories (such as wood perches), and Ventilate the area to keep it clean.
Odors of ammonia. Suppose these are detected before the birds show signs of illness. In that case, it indicates that decomposition of their droppings has already commenced. Open the window immediately and let in a draught; remove the birds without delay, and scrub every inch with a rag dipped in a strong solution of vinegar. Such an odour may, if neglected, cause an incurable blockage of the lungs and air passages.
DROPPINGS CHANGES. Watery droppings indicate a possible bacterial infection; an increased amount signals digestive disturbances. Clean out the cage, paying particular attention to the droppings, as you will need to show the sample to your veterinarian. After cleaning behaviours, post-cleaning may indicate that your pet is unwell, notably sluggish, and has a poor appetite, requiring veterinary attention.
Suppose you have a problem with an insect infestation, deliberate. Ants or flies hovering close to your cages are foul. Rob all the food. Clean the feeders with boiling water. Apply food-grade diatomaceous earth around the cage legs. Never use chemical insecticides around your birds. Your haste could cause them a fatal, virulent disease.
Always retain an emergency cleaning kit on hand. Stock up on vinegar, scrub brushes, and spare liners, and keep them near your cage so you can easily access them. I replenish mine once a month. Being prepared will make responding to emergencies simple in the event that one appears "out of the blue".
Read the full article: Bird Cage Cleaning: Essential Guide for Healthy Pets
