Expert: Chrys Meatyard - 11/21/2006

Question
I have done a lot of reading on lovebirds lately, as I am wanting one as a pet. I am not sure my home environmentis right for one- I have a cat and a dog and am nervous that if the bird glides off my hand, the cat or dog will get it. I have a spare bedrooom that remains closed, however I'm not sure if this is too enclosed for it. Will it not be enough stimulation? Lastly, I am home 4 days, and working 3 days per week. Will the bird be happy that I am home so long of a stretch and then all the sudden angry that I am gone for 10-12 hours the next day? Please help me decide if I should get one. I found one in particular that is hand raised and I fell in love with him the moment I held him. He is such a snuggler! Thanks for your help,     -Nikki

Answer
Hi, Nikki.  Thanks for posting!

You have the bird fever I can tell!  Well, the cat and dog do pose a problem.  They are natural enemies with birds.  When you have your bird out, you'll have to put them away.  You can get these 3 used to each other, but as soon as you'd turn your back, the bird could be gone, if not sooner.  The bedroom would be safer, and you'd have to keep the bird there when you were gone (and maybe locked).  You'd just have to provide enough mental stimulation for your lovie in the room.  Leaving a TV or radio on helps (or taping your voice and playing it...put timers on and switch around), safe/stimulating toys would be required, proper lighting, etc., but it can be done.  

As long as you come home to relax/sleep every day at some point, your bird should be OK 10-12 hours alone.  Keep a TV/radio on, place s/he close to a window (without cold drafts) so the bird can look outside, with a good, healthy diet, mentally stimulating toys, etc., and your bird will be fine.  However, one thing about lovebirds...you do need to interact with one every day.  I believe it's the quality of the time you spend with them than the length of time with them.  Therefore, when you are home, spend as much of that time with your lovie, realizing you have the cat and dog to love also.  I play with my dogs and cats after my birds go to bed!

Chrys