EXPERIENCE ROXY'S PET SHOP CARE SHEETS

• Cage Size: Lovebirds are active and social, so they need a spacious cage. The minimum recommended size for one lovebird is 18 inches wide x 18 inches deep x 24 inches high, though larger is always better, especially if you plan to house more than one bird.
• Bar Spacing: Bar spacing should be ½ inch to ¾ inch to ensure your lovebird cannot escape or get stuck.
• Location: Place the cage in a quiet, safe location where the bird can observe household activities but not be exposed to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight. Avoid placing the cage in drafty areas or too close to heat sources.
• Perches: Provide a variety of perches in different shapes, sizes, and textures (natural wood is best). Lovebirds love to climb, so ensure there are both horizontal and vertical perches, as well as a few different heights for variety.
• Toys & Enrichment: Lovebirds are intelligent and playful. Provide a variety of toys such as foraging toys, wooden blocks, bells, and swings. Rotate toys regularly to keep them mentally stimulated and prevent boredom.

• Fresh Fruits & Vegetables: Supplement their diet with fresh, safe fruits and vegetables. Some good options are apple slices, carrots, spinach, kale, broccoli, berries, and bell peppers. Avoid feeding them avocado, onions, or citrus fruits as they can be toxic.
• Seeds: While seeds are often a favorite of lovebirds, they should only be given as a treat, not the main diet. Seed mixes should contain a variety of seeds, but avoid mixes with too many sunflower seeds or millet, which are high in fat and low in nutrition.
• Fresh Water: Provide clean, fresh water at all times. Change the water daily to keep it fresh and free from bacteria.
• Calcium: Lovebirds need a good source of calcium for strong bones and overall health. Offer a cuttlebone or mineral block to help meet their calcium needs.

• Companionship: Lovebirds are very social birds and thrive on companionship. In the wild, they are typically found in pairs or small flocks, so having more than one bird is ideal if you’re not around a lot. Lovebirds that are kept alone will often bond strongly with their human caregiver.
• Bonding: Lovebirds tend to bond closely with their mate or owner. Once bonded, they can become affectionate and enjoy sitting on your shoulder, being petted, and playing together. However, some lovebirds can be territorial and may show aggression if they feel threatened or if another bird is introduced.
• Training: Lovebirds can learn basic tricks or commands, and they can even learn to step up on command. They respond well to positive reinforcement (treats and praise). Start training early for the best results, but keep in mind they can be a bit independent or stubborn.
• Out-of-Cage Time: Lovebirds need daily time outside of their cage to fly and explore. Make sure the room is bird-proofed, with no open windows, toxic plants, or small spaces where they could get into trouble. Always supervise them when they’re outside their cage to ensure their safety.

• Feather Care: Lovebirds are excellent self-groomers, but you should still check their feathers regularly for signs of damage or parasitic infections. A light misting of water or a shallow bath dish can help keep their feathers healthy and clean.
• Nail & Beak Care: Check your lovebird’s nails regularly. If they become overgrown, they may need to be trimmed. Lovebirds also tend to keep their beaks in good condition through chewing, but if you notice their beak becoming overgrown or malformed, contact a vet.
• Bathing: Most lovebirds enjoy bathing and may bathe on their own if given a shallow dish of water. Alternatively, you can mist them lightly with warm water. Make sure they have the opportunity to dry off afterward.
• Health Monitoring: Keep an eye on your lovebird’s behavior, droppings, and overall appearance. Changes in appetite, lethargy, or abnormal droppings could indicate illness, and you should contact an avian vet immediately. Common health issues for lovebirds include respiratory infections, mites, and malnutrition.

• Nesting: If you are planning to breed lovebirds, provide a nesting box (about 8 inches x 8 inches x 12 inches) with soft bedding material such as shredded paper or hay. Lovebirds are generally not difficult to breed in captivity, but they do need a comfortable, private space to nest.
• Egg Laying: Female lovebirds can lay eggs even without a mate. If you’re not breeding, it’s best to provide calcium in the form of a cuttlebone to prevent egg-binding (a condition in which the bird is unable to pass an egg). Remove unfertilized eggs after a couple of weeks if you don’t want to encourage egg-laying.
• Chicks: If you have a breeding pair, they’ll usually take care of the chicks themselves. However, if you plan on hand-rearing chicks, be prepared for the amount of care and attention required. It’s best to consult an experienced breeder or vet before attempting hand-feeding.

• Affectionate & Social: Lovebirds are known for their affectionate nature, often forming strong bonds with their mate or owner. They enjoy being close to their human family members and will often engage in mutual preening or snuggling.
• Vocalization: Lovebirds are relatively quiet compared to larger parrots, but they are still vocal. They make a variety of chirps, whistles, and soft squawks, particularly when they’re excited or want attention. Their vocalizations are generally not as loud as those of larger parrots.
• Curious & Playful: Lovebirds are curious, active, and playful. They love to explore, climb, and chew on toys or objects in their environment. They need constant mental stimulation to stay happy, so providing them with engaging activities is essential.
• Aggression: While lovebirds can be very sweet, they can also be territorial or nippy, especially during mating season or if they feel threatened. Early socialization and gentle handling can help minimize aggressive behavior.

• Toxic Plants & Materials: Keep your lovebird away from toxic plants like pothos, lilies, azaleas, and oleander. Also, avoid using non-stick cookware (which releases toxic fumes) in areas where your bird can be exposed to them.
• Other Pets: If you have other pets, especially cats or dogs, ensure they are supervised around your lovebird. Lovebirds can be very small and vulnerable to injury from other animals, so keep your bird in a safe, secure area when not under supervision.

Lovebirds are affectionate, playful, and lively companions that can bring a lot of joy to your home. With proper care, they thrive in environments where they feel loved and mentally stimulated. Whether kept alone or in pairs, lovebirds make wonderful pets due to their vibrant personalities and social nature.

By offering them a well-balanced diet, mental and physical enrichment, and lots of social interaction, your lovebird can live a long, happy life as a cherished member of your family. If you ever notice health issues or behavioral concerns, consult with an avian vet for advice.