Besides feeding and watering every day, your bird needs its cage cleaned at least once a week. More often is better. As droppings dry, they turn to powder and dust, greatly increasing the risks of respiratory problems and disease for their sensitive lungs and air sacks.

You will probably want to have someone occasionally trim the flight feathers and toenails, perhaps monthly or quarterly. Do not attempt these procedures yourself. Not only is it stressful for both you and the bird, clipping too deeply into blood supplies can be dangerous for your bird.

Schedule a "well bird check-up" with your veterinarian as soon as possible, then annually after that. The procedures in this annual visit should include the trimmings mentioned in the previous paragraph, a CBC blood work-up, throat culture, listening to the heart and respiratory systems, and answering any general questions you may have about the health of your bird.

You'll want to invest in a good book covering first-aid. Take the time to educate yourself about emergency procedures and build a good first-aid kit for your bird before you actually need to use it.

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