Potty training your bird can be a fairly easy and straightforward process. It will likely take some time and patience, but the rewards will be well worth it. Be sure your pet is old enough before potty training your bird; most birds younger than 4 months of age are not mature enough to handle potty training. Concentrate on positive reinforcement when potty training your bird; praise is far more effective than scolding. Remember to be patient and consistent in your potty training efforts.
Most birds do not defecate during the night, and therefore need to do so in the morning. Many birds are more likely to “go” shortly after they eat, and many birds poop frequently throughout the day. Generally speaking, the larger the bird, the longer she can go between poops. Spend some time each day observing before you start potty training your bird. Each bird is different, and you may be able to identify some clear behavioral patterns in your pet. Many birds exhibit the same behaviors or mannerisms before eliminating. Knowing these will make potty training your bird easier. Decide where you want your bird to poop, before you begin potty training
your bird. Once you start training, try to keep things as consistent as possible, until the desired behaviors are well established. Try to select a location and setting that will be easily accessible and convenient. You may wish to decide on a specific phrase to use while potty training your bird to signal to the bird that you want her to poop. If your bird is a talking breed, remember that she may repeat the phrase you use; be sure to select your “trigger phrase” judiciously.
Once you have observed your bird to identify her natural cues, selected a location or setting for the potty training, and decided on a specific word or phrase to use, you are ready to begin potty training your bird. Before you begin playing with your bird, start by going to the designated potty spot and saying the chosen phrase. You may have to repeat it a few times, so be patient. Wait for her to relive herself, and then praise your bird lavishly. While you are playing, watch for cues that your bird needs to “go.” Even in the absence of these cues, plan to take your bird to the designated potty spot at regular intervals based on the frequency of normal elimination that you have already observed. Each time, be very consistent in your words and actions, and praise your bird highly for each elimination.
Potty training your bird will take time and patience, but birds are intelligent and learn quickly. Remember that accidents are inevitable, but scolding does little to minimize them. Instead, rely on plenty of praise while potty training your bird. You will soon find that you both enjoy playtime more and bond better when potty training is successfully completed.
