Bird potty training 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 attempting bird potty training; most birds younger than 4 months of age are not mature enough to handle potty training. Concentrate on positive reinforcement when potty training; praise is far more effective than scolding. Remember to be patient and consistent in your bird 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 is, the longer she can go between poops. Spend some time each day observing before you start bird potty training. 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 bird potty training easier.
Decide where you want your bird to poop before you begin bird potty training. Changing this location after you have begun potty training your bird can lead to delays, regressions, or even refusal to train; be sure to choose the spot carefully. Once you start bird potty 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 want to choose a specific phrase to use while bird potty training, to signal to the bird that you want him to poop. If your bird is a talking breed, remember that he may repeat the phrase you use so be sure to choose this “trigger phrase” carefully.
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 bird potty training. Before you start a play session with your bird, go to the designated potty spot and say the “trigger phrase.” You may have to repeat it a few times, so be patient. Wait for him to relive himself, and then praise your bird lavishly. While you are playing, watch for cues that your bird needs to eliminate. Whether or not you see any of these cues, 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.
Bird potty training will take time and patience, but birds are intelligent animals and learn quickly. Remember that accidents are inevitable, but scolding does little to minimize these. Instead, rely on plenty of praise while bird potty training. You will soon find that you both enjoy playtime more and bond better when potty training is successfully completed.
