The holidays have officially gone to the birds … well, for some of us, anyway. Turtle doves and partridges in pear trees aside, many of our feathered patients will be having the time of their lives this month. Polly enjoys gifts and goodies just as much as the rest of us! However, you will need to take precautions to keep your winged friend safe. A Las Vegas, NV vet offers some holiday bird care tips below.

Decorations

It’s probably safe to say that the majority of your holiday decorations are dangerous for Polly. Anything small or sharp is a hazard, as are things with strings or cords, such as ribbons and lights. Items coated with things like glitter or varnish are also unsafe. Ask your vet for more information.

Christmas Trees

Wild birds live in trees, so you may think it’s fine for Polly to play in your Christmas tree. However, that is definitely not the case. Your feathered friend could injure herself on sharp needles, ornaments, or ornament hooks, or try to eat tinsel. She could also get sap stuck in her feathers.

Candles

Candles and birds are an extremely dangerous mix. Even if Polly can’t fly, there is still the issue of smoke inhalation, which could make your cute pet very sick.

Baking

Those holiday spreads are a big part of many seasonal traditions. However, the kitchen is a dangerous spot for birds. They can burn themselves on hot burners or pots, cut themselves on sharp knives, or even fall into sinks or pots of hot and/or soapy water. Plus, many types of cookware give off toxic fumes. Keep Polly far away from the kitchen.

Foods

Treats are fine, but don’t give Polly anything unsafe. That includes chocolate, avocado, anything high in sugar, salt, or fat; alcohol; dairy products, coffee; and alcohol. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Guests

Keep Polly in her cage when people are coming or going. Having a full house? Put your feathered buddy in a quiet back room until your guests leave.

Gifts

Don’t forget to pick up something for Polly! Perches and toys are pretty much the go-to here. You may also want to get your winged pal a bigger cage, or perhaps a fun swing or ladder.

Happy Holidays from all of us here at Flamingo Pet Clinic. Please contact us, your Las Vegas, NV animal clinic, anytime!