Caring for a Canary or Finch
Finches and canaries are attractive birds that make fascinating and rewarding pets. They can be kept singly or in groups. Neither finches nor canaries are typically finger-tamed, so most owners take them home to enjoy the songs they sing. Male canaries sing beautiful songs to attract females, which can be quite relaxing to their owner. The following information is appropriate for all members of the finch and canary family.
General Care
Although most pet owners are content to observe their birds, with patience and perseverance it is possible to finger tame them. Finches and canaries can be messy eaters, and it is wise to place their cage in an area that can be easily cleaned up.
Housing
Finches or canaries need the largest cage you can afford; since they are not usually finger tamed and spend most of their time in their cage; they need plenty of room. Cage width and depth are more important than height. Make sure the cage is zinc safe and lead free, with appropriate bar size and spacing. Natural hardwood branches sold at your pet store make the best perches. Choose a variety of nontoxic wood or acrylic toys to keep your bird busy and rotate them to avoid boredom.
Diet
These birds should be fed a variety of foods, including vitamin fortified seed mix, dark green, leafy vegetables, yams, carrots, hard boiled eggs, and some fruit. Fresh, clean water should always be available. Remove perishable foods after a few hours and at bedtime. A seed-only diet will result in malnutrition. Do not feed birds fruit seeds, avocados, chocolate, caffeine, or alcohol.
Cleaning
Tray liners should be replaced every day and the cage bottom, fittings and dishes regularly washed with a safe bird cage cleaner.
Fertility
Egg laying is quite common in finches and canaries and can start any time after five months of age. Excessive egg laying is a potential health risk; consult a qualified avian vet if you have a pair. Females laying eggs should be given extra calcium to avoid deficiencies.
Health
Finches and canaries should have a complete exam by a qualified avian vet at least once a year or as soon as possible if any bleeding, injuries, or other signs are noted. It can be hard to tell when a bird is ill, and by the time you notice a problem, the sickness is usually well advanced. Delaying a visit with an avian vet or using over the counter human medicines may be fatal.
Warnings
Finches and canaries have extremely sensitive respiratory systems and should not be exposed to cigarette smoke, aerosols, harsh cleaning products, or other toxic fumes.
Companion animals are potential carriers of infectious diseases that can be passed to humans. Taking these simple precautions can help prevent the potential spread of diseases:
- Always wash your hands before and after handling your pet and/or habitat contents
- Carry hand sanitizer when venturing outside of your home with pet
- Do not kiss or let your mouth come into contact with your pet
- Keep your companion’s habitat, water & food bowls, décor, and other surfaces as clean as possible and remove droppings daily
Pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems should speak with their physician when considering a new pet. For more information regarding pets and disease, go to the Center for Disease Control at cdc.gov/healthypets/. The information provided on this Care Sheet is not a substitute for veterinary care. It is strongly advised to seek further information on the care of your animal. In the event of serious health concerns please consult your veterinarian.
Recommended Supplies Carried by Kahoots
- Kahoots Canary or Finch food
- Zupreem Purefun Fruit Blend
- KT FDPH Bird Greens
- Spray Millet
- 2 x Lee High-back Perch Cups
- Kahoots Probiotics
- Spray Bottle (for bathing)
- Missing Link Avian Formula
- ZM Avian Plus Vits & Mins
- KT Treat Jars or Treat Sticks
- KT Kay Kob bedding
- Happy Beaks Cage Toys
- Kahoots Organic Stain and Odor Remover
Addition Recommended Supplies
- 16”x24”x18” or larger Flight Cage
- Cage Stand
- Birdie Bloomer Seed Guard