If you spend time gazing out your window, you’ve likely seen outdoor birds taking dust baths. Do indoor birds need dust baths too?

Outdoor birds can frequently be seen taking dust baths. The dust is able to soak up excess oil in the feathers. Then, the dust can easily be cast out of the feathers with a little ruffling. Outdoor birds also engage in this behavior as a way to control parasites. The dust can help smother feather mites and lice.

In general, indoor birds do not need dust baths. Because they aren’t regularly exposed to the outdoors, regular water baths are usually just fine. Just make sure you never use soap! Detergents can be very harmful to your bird’s plumage.

For a little fun, you can try giving your bird a dust bath. Just be prepared to follow it up with a water bath.

To learn more, click here, or call your veterinary clinic Puyallup, WA.