Your family is excited to bring a bird into the household, and you are eagerly preparing for her arrival. Since you know that her cage will be where she spends a lot of her time, you want to make sure you choose the right one. However, there are so many sizes on the market. How large should your bird’s cage be?

Every bird is different, so you will need to do some research prior to purchasing a cage. Some birds will need more space than others, and will therefore need a larger cage to keep them happy and content. Also, consider where perches can be placed within it, as this may impact your decision. The spot you plan on placing her cage within your home may also influence your decision, so determine this before heading to the store. For more information, please contact your local Fox Lake, IL veterinarian.

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Gerbils are desert-dwelling animals so they are not fond of water baths. If your gerbil gets something sticky on him, you may need to spot clean him with a cloth dampened in lukewarm water. However, the best way to keep your gerbil clean is through a dust bath. Purchase chinchilla sand from a reputable pet supply dealer. This sand will help remove oils and dirt from your gerbil but won’t cause respiratory issues from dust in the air. You can also purchase a dust bath or use a plastic container. Put a few inches of sand in the container and place it in your gerbil’s cage to explore. He should start rolling around in the sand to get clean. Only leave the bath in the cage for about 15 minutes and try another day if your gerbil isn’t interested. Otherwise he could start using it as a litter box. Contact your Folsom, CA vet to learn more.

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