Ask Lafeber

Question:

November 6, 2020

Nutrition, disinfecting


what do you suggest to use for disinfecting water and food bowls? is it sufficient to wash dishes with hot water and scrubbing with a non-toxic dish soap?
hoping you will suggest what type of food you suggest to prevent all the deficiencies you’ve shown.
also, can you suggest how to switch from seed to pellets for picky eaters?


Answer:

We are sorry for the delay in replying to your questions from the Webinar What Should I Feed? Nutritionally Balanced Diets are For the Birds! Presented by Kara Burns. There was a death in Kara’s family and she understandably needed some personal time.

Hi Dawn,

Many different kinds of disinfectants are capable of killing a variety of germs including viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Several disinfectants safe for birds are commercially available. One cup of household chlorine bleach in one gallon of water is effective against many disease-causing organisms – but must be used with caution as the fumes can be toxic to birds. To be most effective, disinfectants should be applied to a wet surface. In larger aviary or flocks, a disinfectant with broader antimicrobial properties may be more beneficial. Discuss your specific cleaning needs with your veterinarian.

Many disinfectants, including bleach, need to be used with great care and may release toxic fumes. They must be used with proper ventilation, and the bird should not be present while they are being used. It is extremely important to rinse well whenever you use a disinfectant so as not to leave any residue on the cage or its contents.

A pellet (such as Lafeber’s Premium Daily Diet or Tropical Fruit Pellets) will provide complete nutrition.

How To Switch Or Convert Your Bird From Seeds To Pellets

This article gives information on how to transition from seed to pellets. I have had success with offering Pellet-Berries  to stimulate birds to try something new. The combination of seeds and other ingredients mixed with the pellets can get birds to pick at the new, healthy pellet option.

Thank you,

Kara Burns

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