Converting "Seed Junkies"

A "seed junkie" is a caged bird that eats only seeds and nuts. This type of diet guarantees ill health and a greatly shortened life span for these pet birds. As a matter of fact, malnutrition in birds accounts for 90% of all health problems.

Seed and nut mixes are high in fat. Pet birds, given the opportunity, prefer these high fat foods and their addictive-like quality makes these birds hard to convert. So why even bother? Unfortunately, the high fat of these diets causes fatty liver problems and eventually this type of diet will kill your bird.

It is important to switch your bird to a healthier diet for a more active, playful, beautiful and healthy pet. Since seed diets lack at least 21 different essential nutrients, we recommend a complete pelleted diet. We feel that any pelleted diet is a huge improvement over seeds and nuts, but the best pelleted diet is Harrison's Bird Diets. HBD is made with organic, human-grade ingredients with added ingredients for better digestion and improved immune system.

Don't delay. Come in today to Harmony and we'll show you which diet we recommend for your bird.

And don't forget: your bird needs a yearly wellness exam and stool check just as your dog and cat do! We'd be glad to schedule one.

Making the switch
Introducing a new food is often a challenge. Many birds may require a little coaxing to try a pelleted diet for the first time.

Start with a bowl of the new food during the entire day and limit the normal seed diet to two 15-minute feedings (morning and evening) for the 1st 3 days.

Mix a small amount of Harrison's pelleted diet with a favorite food, gradually increasing the amount while reducing the other food to none.

Some birds benefit from having changes in the environment at the same time as a diet change so the food itself seems less frightening. For example, put the bird in unfamiliar surroundings, such as an empty aquarium or bathtub, and sprinkle the food on the bottom (near a small container of water). We're often very successful making the switch with birds that are boarding with us. You may want to consider this option.

Maintain close contact with one of our avian doctors. Watch for: unusual droppings other than a color change to pale brown; a fluffed up and sleepy bird; constantly searching for food.

Reprinted with permission from Harrison's Bird Diets "Your Special Bird's Diet" pamphlet.