The Basic Care Of Canaries

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In the first few days of your canary coming home you are concerned about its health or well being, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are open seven days a week and often a quick phone call to one of our experienced staff may alleviate any minor problems, and put your mind at ease.

Housing

Whichever cage you choose, you will need to line the bottom of the cage with a wood based cat litter or sanded sheets. Place the cage out of draughts and direct sunlight, and provide a cover at night. Two birds will sing to each other. Two cock birds may get rough with each other, but if placed in separate cages they too will sing to each other.

Canaries like all other birds like to bathe which helps their plumage. They can be sprayed or given a bath two or three times a week, a plastic bath may be mounted at the doorway of the cage. Clean your canaries cage and perches regularly to keep him/her healthy.

Diet

Feed top quality seed and provide grit to aid digestion. Supply fresh fruit and lettuce sparingly. Vitamins can also be added to their water to keep ypur bird in tip top condition.

Remove uneaten fresh food every day. Keep your bird’s troughs clean to prevent illness. Remove empty husks from the seed pot during the day.

General Health

All our animals are given a health check before being put on sale. If properly fed and cleaned your canary should remain healthy for many years and give you lots of pleasure. Remember birds are easily frightened and can collapse. Rough handling can cause internal injuries. Draughts can lead to pneumonia. If your canary sits with his feathers ruffled and breathing rapidly, take him to your vet. Diarrhoea can also be fatal. His claws may overgrow and may require trimming, you can arrange to see our trained staff to have them trimmed, or see your vet.