Home >> Science & Nature >> Animals & Science

How Can I Set Up a Birdcage if My Bird Can't Walk but Can Fly?

A number of health issues may make a bird incapable of walking. As long as your bird is being routinely evaluated by a veterinarian to monitor its condition, there's no reason this handicap should prevent it from leading a happy and healthy life. Setting up a special cage for a handicapped bird takes some effort, but it will provide your bird with an enriching home that will make its life easier.

Instructions

- 1
  Purchase a cage that's short enough for your bird not to be injured in a fall. Even if it can still fly, your bird may slip suddenly and not be able to find a perch. Because of this, cages that are long and deep but not very tall make the best housing option.
- 2
  Purchase a few metal shelves designed for rodent cages (the number and size of the shelves will depend on the species of bird and how many perching platforms you'd like in the cage). These shelves hook easily over cage bars and provide a flat, wide place for your bird to land on and rest without having to use its feet.
- 3
  Cover the shelving with a few layers of a smooth, finely woven, organic fabric, such as cotton sheeting, and stitch it in place to prevent sliding. The fabric padding will help to prevent the bird from developing sore spots on its keel bone and feet. Be sure that both the fabric and the stitches are tight enough so that your bird won't get its toenails stuck.
- 4
  Hang an organic, untreated fiber basket (jute, hemp or wicker all work well) in the cage as an alternative to a conventional bird swing.
- 5
  Place several shallow food and water dishes around the cage so that your bird doesn't have to overexert itself to reach them. Water bottles are good alternatives for disabled birds because they eliminate the risk of drowning.
- 6
  Hang toys in easy-to-reach areas. Avoid toys with sharp or protruding parts to prevent injury.

Animals & Science