CLEANING:

Yes, we need to be careful...Cages can be cleaned safely with several products readily available. California Cage Cleaner and Poop Off(tm) are great droppings dropping, but to disinfect we need to use something, which will not harm the while killing off bacteria and toxins. Oxyfresh cleansing Gel and Oxyfresh Disinfectant are two of the favored products. These may be used once monthly for a real deep down disinfecting of the overall cage and can be used weekly to clean perches, cage sides and grates. Their cage should be cleaned at least weekly...many prefer a soap and water or vinegar solution for the weekly cleaning. It is very important no matter what you use to clean/disinfect you understand rinsing is one of the most important factors. Chemical build up can cause a more toxic situation than the birds' natural bacteria.. .. rinse completely and sun /or towel dry the cage before returning your bird to it. Apple Cider Vinegar is used in many ways today, including cleaning (see article at http://www.parrothouse.com/acv.html) for info on the many uses of this wonderful, natural product. No matter what you use and what the label of the product you use states, PLEASE remove your bird when cleaning the cage. Cleaning and invading their territory is a stressful time for them....also, I can't imagine taking a chance that the bird might "get into" whatever you are cleaning with....... Toys should be rotated weekly and can be soaked for five minutes in mild soapy water and then soaked in clean water for 1/2 hour before final rinsing . If you are lucky enough to have a rack on your cage stand, you can spread a clean towel on the rack and let the toys air dry in a bright, warm area (hopefully where your bird is also)! Sunlight is a wonderful, natural disinfectant! Beware of using any product, which states it is antibacterial..these contain dangerous chemicals, which may not rinse away completely! Oxyfresh Gel is recommended for toy cleaning!

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