Category: Birds

Australian King Parrots
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Australian king parrots are also known as green-winged king parrots or Alisterus Scapularis.

They are a large parrot species that is native to Australia. They are commonly seen in the wild as well as being kept as pets.
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King Parrot Facts
- The Australian king parrot was first discovered by Martin Lichtenstein in 1818.
- They can live for up to 30 years in the wild or if cared for well in captivity.
- They can mate for life although sometimes they will swap partners.
- They can typically be seen together in families – a male and female pair with a couple of their babies.
There are 3 types of ‘king parrots’
- Australian
- Papuan
- Moluccan
This blog will focus on the Australian variety.
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Where to Find Them

Australian king parrots are native to Australia and New Guinea. They are commonly seen in the wild (high in the tree) as well as kept as pets.

They are rarely kept as pets in other countries.

Mostly found in Eastern Australia ranging from places such as Cooktown in Queensland to Port Campbell in Victoria. This includes being found in coastal areas of Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.

They are typically found in rainforests, parks and farms. They can also be found perched in tree trunks in suburban areas with lots of trees.
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Diet

In nature, the Australian king parrot’s diet consists of seeds, fruits, nuts and flowers.

Pet owners typically feed their king parrots a pellet and seed mix. We recommend purchasing high quality food to keep your pet bird healthy. Portion sizes will vary from bird to bird.

Fruit and vegetables can also be given to your pet king parrot. They enjoy carrot, corn, capsicum, broccoli, pumpkin and apple (always remove seeds).

Nuts can be given to your pet bird occasionally as a treat. Make sure to only give them a very small amount at a time. They like to eat almonds and shelled peanuts. Only ever give your bird unsalted nuts.

Always provide your bird with clean water to drink. Somerzby bird cages all come with large bowls for food and water.

Putting your parrot’s food in foraging toys can help to keep them entertained by mimicking natural foraging behaviours they would display in the wild.
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Appearance

Australian king parrots are a large parrot species. They typically grow to be between 40 and 45cm long. They have a long tail.

Like all parrots, they have strong, curved beaks. Their claws have two toes at the front and two toes at the back.

They are most distinctive by their very colourful and bright red and dark green feathers, with green head and breast. They are popular with bird watchers in Australia.

They are most similar in appearance to the crimson rosella. The main difference is that the crimson rosella has blue wings, tail and cheeks.
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Male and Female Differences

Australian king parrots are sexually dimorphic. This means that there is an obvious physical difference between the males and females, other than their sex organs.

In Australian king parrots, the males are redder and the females are greener!

A male king parrot will have a red head, neck and chest. They have a bright orange beak.

A female king parrot will have a green head, neck and check. They have a dark grey beak.

Similar to males, the females have red bellies and green backs, wings and tails. Both also have dark grey legs and feet.

Baby king parrots will typically look like females with mostly green features. It can take a couple of years for a male’s red colours to show.

Because of this, young male king parrots are often confused for adult females.

Fun fact: Male king parrots are the only Australian parrot that have a red head!
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As Pets

King parrots are commonly found as pets in Australia.

If they are hand raised, king parrots are generally quite calm and friendly. They enjoy interaction with humans but are not particularly affectionate and prefer not to be handled too often. They don’t bond with their human owners as much as other types of parrot do.

They are one of the quieter parrot species although don’t expect them not to make any noise! They will chatter and can make a high-pitched, loud whistle.

They are able to learn to talk although they don’t speak as clearly as some other parrot species.

If you have decided an Australian king parrot is right for you and would like to buy one, consider bird rescues.

Lots of people decide to buy parrots but are then unable to care for them properly and have to give them up.

If you wish to purchase one from a breeder, try contacting your local parrot and bird clubs first to find out names of reputable breeders.

Parrots can vary from $100-$1,000.

Where ever you decide to get your parrot from, ask lots of questions. Make sure the bird has been cared for well and that you feel comfortable purchasing it.

The rescue group or breeder should also ask you a lot of questions to make sure the bird will be suitable for you and your family.

Fun fact: When breeding they lay their eggs in a deep hollow of a tree trunk on a bed of old sawdust.
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Cages

Australian king parrots are a large parrot breed.

If you are keeping one as a pet, they need a large bird cage which provides them plenty of room to spread their wings and exercise.

The more space you are able to provide your pet king parrot, the happier it will be.

If you have your king parrot in a smaller cage, you will need to let them out of the cage daily to exercise.

When letting your king parrot outside of its cage, ensure the area it is allowed in is fully enclosed and safe. If this is inside your home, bird-proof everything.

This includes closing doors and windows, turning off fans and removing any pets that may not get along with your bird.

The Somerzby Bella bird cage has an opening roof that allows your king parrot to sit above its cage and stretch out its wings.

The cage also features a metal pull-out tray so it can easily be cleaned and caster wheels so it can be moved around your home.

Inside your bird’s cage, include plenty of things to keep it stimulated and entertained. King parrots love to climb and swing. They also love to chew on things.

See tips for choosing the right bird cage in our blog by clicking here.
May 21, 2020
Parrot Breeds
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Parrots are very popular and are ideal pets. They are also known as psittacines. There are around 400 parrot species.

All parrot breeds have some features in common. They have curved beaks that are very strong. Their claws have two toes at the front and two toes at the back. Most have very bright and colourful feathers.

The majority of parrot breeds are also affectionate and create long term bonds with their human owners. They enjoy being handled if you regularly interact with them from an early age.

They are very intelligent compared to other types of birds. Some are able to learn to ‘speak’, copy noises and do tricks.

Whilst parrots have many common features, each breed is unique and has its own characteristics.

Choosing the right type of pet parrot to suit you and your family is important and will ensure you form a strong bond and are happy together.
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Parrot Breeds

These parrot breeds are commonly found as pets.
1. Amazon
2. Lovebird
3. Macaws
4. Parrotlet
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Australian Parrot Breeds

The following parrot breeds are native to Australia. They are commonly seen in the wild as well as kept as pets.
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Friendly Parrot Breeds

Some parrot breeds are naturally friendlier that others. They are more likely to be affectionate and bond with their humans.
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African Grey Parrot

African grey are a large parrot. Their feathers are monochromatic except for their bright red tail.

They are considered the most intelligent parrot and have the best talking ability – they can learn thousands of words and even use words in context to have very simple conversations.

Due to their intelligence they form strong bonds, usually with only one person. They require a high level of daily attention, socialisation and mental stimulation.
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Amazon

There are various types of amazon parrots. They vary in size but are all medium to large parrots. Most have green bodies with different coloured heads, tails or beaks.

They are intelligent and can learn to speak clearly. They can be very noisy and loud at times.

Amazons require a lot of stimulation and time out of their cage to exercise daily. They must be handled and interacted with regularly to avoid them becoming aggressive.

Amazon parrots can be found in South America and can live for 50 years.
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Australian King Parrot

Australian king parrots are also known as green-winged king parrots. They are a large parrot species that is native to Australia.

They are sexually dimorphic – the males are red and the females are green!

They are quite calm compared to other parrots. They typically don’t like to be handled and don’t bond with their owners as strongly as other parrots do.

Australian king parrots can live for up to 30 years.
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Budgie

Budgies are also known as budgerigars and parakeets. They are one of the most popular pet birds and are suitable for new bird owners or families with children.

On average, budgies live for 7-15 years.
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Cockatiel

The cockatiel is a medium-sized parrot native to Australia.

It is a popular pet bird choice due to its friendly yet outgoing personality. They love to socialise with humans, play with toys and forage for food at the bottom of their cage.

Cockatiels can live up to 20 years.
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Cockatoo

There are various species of cockatoo including sulphur crested, umbrella, moluccan, rose-breasted (galah) and black cockatoos. They are recognisable by their expressive head crest.

Cockatoos require a lot of socialisation and attention to be happy. They will bond strongly to their human and can be very affectionate.

Before getting a cockatoo, consider if you are able to spend time to give your pet the interaction it needs.

Cockatoos can be very noisy and can learn to talk very well. They love to chew – provide them with plenty of toys or they might destroy your belongings.

Cockatoos can live 40-80 years if cared for properly. Larger variations will live longer than small parrots.
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Conure

There are many variations of conure including the sun, jenday, golden, green-cheeked, cherry-headed, black-capped and white-eyed conures.

They are all small to medium sized parrots with vibrant coloured feathers.

They are friendly and playful with a big personality. Conures are best for people that have owned pet birds because as they can be very active and loud.

They require a lot of exercise and the ability to fly around throughout the day. Conures are considered to be a wild, non-domesticated bird even if bred in captivity.

Conures can live 20-30 years, depending on their size and how well they are cared for.
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Eclectus

Eclectus are large, brightly coloured parrots that are native to Australia. Similar to Australian king parrots, they are sexually dimorphic – the males are green and the females are red.

They can be very intelligent, with males being easiest to train. They are generally quiet but do make a distinctive honking noise and can be taught to speak.

Eclectus usually live to 30 years old, however some have lived up to 50.
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Lorikeet

There are many types of lorikeet, with seven of them being native to Australia. The most commonly seen is the rainbow lorikeet.

They are medium sized and brightly coloured. They are friendly and enjoy spending a lot of time with their owners.

Lorikeets can live up to 30 years.
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Lovebirds

Lovebirds are also known as ‘pocket parrots’ because of their small size. Their bright, colourful feathers make them very distinctive.

Lovebirds are very active and sociable. They can also be very territorial if not handled from a young age. Whilst not overly noisy, they will make chirping noises and can screech when demanding attention.

Lovebirds can live up to 15 years.
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Macaws

There are different species of macaw including the blue and gold, greenwing, hyacinth, Hahn’s, and scarlet macaw. Macaws are large and come in many bright colours.

They are intelligent and can be trained to speak plus perform tricks. Macaws are very messy and very loud.

They are one of the most challenging birds and can become destructive or aggressive if not cared for properly or regularly handled.

Macaws require a large and strong cage. They are active and will need to be let out daily for exercise. Macaws can live 30-50 years.
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Parrotlets

Parrotlets are the smallest type of parrot. Their size and quiet nature make them a great choice for bird owners who live in apartments or have close neighbours.

If handled daily, they can be very affectionate towards humans. They prefer to be kept alone.

Parrotlets can live 20-30 years.
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Quaker Parrot

Quaker parrots are also known as monk parakeets. They are medium sized parrots.

They are very active, social and confident. Quakers will often bond with one human in particular but not others. They tend to make a lot of softer noises and can learn to talk.

Quaker parrots can live 20-30 years.
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Cross Breed Parrots

Parrots are able to cross breed with other types of parrot if they are both very similar. However, if they are too different then it will not work. Cross breeding is also known as hybridisation.

Cross breeding is most likely to be successful with parrots from the same genus. Different variations of the same genus are commonly cross bred to create new breeds and feather colours, e.g. different types of Macaw are cross bred.

Cross breeding will sometimes occur in nature although it is more commonly seen when humans purposely breed parrots in captivity.

You should only attempt to cross breed parrots if you know what you are doing to avoid genetic defects and health issues in your birds. Some cross bred birds are fertile but many are not.
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Parrot Breeding Tips

Each type of parrot has different breeding requirements. Before breeding your birds, look into the specific requirements your species has. It can be useful to speak to other bird breeders in your area or online who have experience and can offer advice.

Breeding pairs should be kept separate from other birds. This will encourage them to breed and also prevent fights and injuries from occurring.

Most parrots require a warm space to breed. Make sure their cage is placed somewhere where it won’t get too cold. You can install heating devices in their cage or breeding boxes to make them more comfortable. Temperature requirements vary among species.

Younger birds are more likely to want to breed than older birds. Some birds, like people, just aren’t suited to one another and don’t want to breed.

Sometimes temporarily separating the pair then reuniting them can make them interested. If not, you will need to give up on that pair and introduce a new breeding partner to one of the birds.
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Bird Cage for Breeding Parrots

It is best to give your breeding parrots as much space as possible.

A larger cage will make them feel more comfortable. Cage size will vary depending on the type and size of your parrots. The more territorial a species is, the more space they will need.

Parrots are more likely to breed if kept outdoors however birds do breed within indoor cages.

Provide the birds with as much nature as possible including branches, wood to chew on and leaves.

Place the cage in a quiet area. Even if your parrots are used to noise, they may not feel comfortable breeding if they do not feel 100% secure.

Placing a breeding box (aka. nesting box) inside the cage provides your parrots with somewhere to lay and raise their eggs. This mimics the sort of shelter a wild parrot would seek.

If your parrot doesn’t feel it has a safe place to lay its eggs, it may avoid breeding all together.

More Reading
April 24, 2020
Bird Cages for Sale – Practical Tips for Buying the Right One
Buying the Best Cage

When deciding to get a pet bird, one of the first things you will need to do is buy a suitable cage.

All birds need a cage to call their home – somewhere they feel safe and can rest. Their cage will also contain their food, water, perches and toys.

Choosing the right bird cage to buy will help your bird to stay healthy and happy.

Remember that all pet birds require regular time outside of their cage to exercise and stretch their wings.

Types of Cages to Buy

Choose a cage that is strong and sturdy. It should be able to protect your bird and also not be broken by the bird itself.

Choose a cage that won’t rust. Somerzby cages are made from Hammerite coated steel, meaning they will last many years.

Avoid round cages, as they can cause birds to feel stressed. A cage with corners can help birds feel more secure.

Round cages are also a risk as their feet or feathers can get trapped at the top point where all the bars meet. A dome-topped rectangle or square cage will provide extra room.

Choose a cage that will be easy to keep clean. Cages should have a slide-out metal tray on the bottom that is easy to pull out and clean off. Cover this tray in newspaper or something absorbent and change it regularly.

Having a second tray above the newspaper with metal bars will stop your bird from touching its waste or picking up food droppings from the dirty floor.

Having a cage with a seed skirt will also minimise mess around the cage.

A cage with outside access to food and water bowls will make them easy to change without risking your bird getting out.

If you have a larger bird, choose a cage with horizonal bars. This will allow your bird to climb and exercise.

What Cage Size Should I Buy?

Your bird’s cage must be a suitable size. Pet stores will often display birds in cages that are too small so don’t base your decision on that.

In general, the bigger the cage is, the happier your bird will be. However, it is not always possible for everyone to have the largest cage on the market.

Consider where it will be placed in your house and what sized cage you can fit. Try to avoid having your pet bird near a window, heater or the kitchen, as they can be sensitive to hot temperatures.

Also consider the size of your bird. Your cage should be two times as tall as your bird and two times as wide as your bird’s wingspan.

You don’t want your bird regularly hitting into the sides of the cage as this can injure them or cause them stress.

Look at the internal dimensions of your cage, not just the external dimensions. Also factor in how much space food and water bowls, perches and toys might take up.

If your bird has a long tail, it will need a tall cage so its feathers aren’t hitting the floor.

If you think you may buy a second bird at a later stage, buy a larger cage now to accommodate it and save you money in the long run.

Look at how far apart the bars of the cage are. If the bars are too far apart, your bird may get its head trapped between the bars and be injured.

Smaller birds may even escape – you will be surprised by the small spaces they can squeeze through! Bars too close together may cause birds to get their feet or feathers trapped.

Somerzby Bird Cages to Buy

Amy

The Somerzby Amy bird cage is best suited for:
- Budgie
- Cockatiel
Buddy

The Somerzby Buddy bird cage is best suited for:
More Bird Information
March 11, 2019
Ultimate Guide for Choosing the Best Pet Bird
When choosing a pet bird, it is important to consider what type of bird suits you best. This will help you to be the best pet owner you can be.

Unsure where to start?

See Somerzby’s categories below on the best pet birds:
Best Birds for Beginners

If you are thinking of becoming a bird owner for the first time, note that some breeds are easier to care for than others.

Choosing a bird that is smaller, lower maintenance and friendlier can help your first experience be a positive one and ensure you develop a positive long-term relationship with your new pet.
- Budgie
- Finch
- Cockatiel
- Dove and Pigeon
- Lovebird
Best Small Birds

Smaller pet birds best suit those who have limited space, such as those in small homes or apartments. Whilst these birds still need ample room to move around, they can be kept in smaller cages.

They are also easier to handle, making them best for inexperienced bird owners or families with children.
- Budgie
- Finch
- Cockatiel
- Lovebird
- Parrotlet
Best Big Birds

Larger birds are best for more experienced bird owners. They can have very long lifespans so are a long-term commitment. They are also generally more expensive, louder and messier.
Quiet Birds

Whilst they will still make noise sometimes, these breeds are generally a lot quieter than others. This makes them best for beginners (who aren’t used to noisy pets) and people who live very close to their neighbours.
- Budgie
- Finch
- Parrotlet
Noisy Birds

All pet birds will naturally make noise. However, some are considerably worse than others. It is in their nature to make noise more often and be louder. If you prefer a quieter pet or are new to owning birds, it is best to avoid these!
- Amazon Parrot
- Cockatoo
- Conure
- Macaw
Birds that Talk

Birds that can talk are a very popular choice of pet. Birds learn to mimic human speech in an attempt to socialise and bond with their owners. Teaching your bird to talk is a great trick to impress people. The following breeds can be taught to talk.

However, they require a lot of training and attention – don’t just expect them to know what to say! Patience and consistency are essential. Begin with easy and short words.
Affectionate Birds

Some breeds of bird are more likely to be friendly and cuddly pets. Affectionate birds are easier to handle and more likely to bond with you. This can make being a bird owner a more enjoyable and fulfilling experience.
- African Grey Parrot
- Budgie
- Cockatiel
- Cockatoo
- Conure
- Lovebird
- Parrotlet
- Quaker Parrot
Bird Breeds

African Grey Parrot

African Greys are a large parrot. Their feathers are monochromatic except for their bright red tail, making them very distinctive.

They are considered the most intelligent parrot and the best at talking – they can learn thousands of words and even use words in context to have very simple conversations.

Be careful what you say around them, it is difficult for them to unlearn unwanted or inappropriate phrases.

Due to their intelligence they form strong bonds, usually with only one person. They require a high level of daily attention, socialisation and mental stimulation.

African greys can live for 75 years – they are a life time commitment.

Amazon Parrot

There are different types of amazon parrot. All originate from the Amazon in South America. They vary in size but are all medium to large birds. Most have green bodies with different coloured heads, tails or beaks.

They are intelligent and can learn to speak clearly. They can be very noisy and loud at times.

Amazons require a lot of stimulation and time out of their cage to exercise daily. They must be handled and interacted with regularly to avoid them becoming aggressive.

Amazon parrots can live for 50 years. Your pet amazon parrot will grow old with you, so make sure you are 100% committed before purchasing.

Budgie

Budgies, also known as budgerigars and parakeets, are a very popular pet bird. They are a great choice for new bird owners or families with children. They are small, quiet, friendly and easy to care for. They are also more affordable than other pet birds.

Budgies love to whistle and sing. They can also learn to talk. Their words tend to be less clear than other talking birds.

On average, budgies live to 7 years. They can live for up to 15 years if cared for well. Unfortunately, accident and illness are common.

Due to their small size, budgies only need a small cage. However, they still need room to fly around and be let out regularly for exercise. Budgies are social birds and are generally happier if they are kept with another budgie.

Cockatiel

The cockatiel is a medium-sized, Australian parrot. It is a popular pet choice due to its friendly yet outgoing personality. They love to socialise with humans, play with toys and forage for food at the bottom of their cage.

They can regularly be heard chirping and whistling. Whilst they can learn to talk with lots of training, they are more likely to copy random sounds they hear.
Cockatiels can live up to 20 years.

A cockatiel’s cage needs to be large enough for it to flap its wings around without hitting into anything.

Suggested Bird Cage: The Somerzby Buddy bird cage is well suited to a pet cockatiel. Click here for more information.

Cockatoo

There are various species of cockatoo including sulphur-crested, umbrella, moluccan and rose-breasted (galah) cockatoos. They can range from medium to large sizes.

Cockatoos require a lot of socialisation and attention to be happy. They will bond strongly to their human and can be very affectionate. Before getting a cockatoo, consider if you have enough free time to give your pet the interaction it needs.

Cockatoos can be very noisy and can learn to talk very well. They love to chew – provide them with plenty of toys or they might destroy your belongings. They can be very messy with their food.

Cockatoos can live 40-80 years if cared for properly. Larger variations will live longer than smaller ones.

They require a sturdy, high quality cage to withstand their strong beak. A cage with horizontal bars is best so that they can climb.

Conure

There are many variations of conure including the sun, jenday, golden, green-cheeked, cherry-headed, black-capped and white-eyed conure. They are all small to medium sized parrots with bright, colourful feathers.

They are friendly and playful with a big personality. Conures are best for people that have owned pet birds before as they can be very active and loud. They require a lot of exercise and the ability to fly around throughout the day. Conures are considered to be a wild, non-domesticated bird even if bred in captivity.

They can learn to speak a few words if trained well. However, they are more likely to mimic random noises they hear around them.

Conures can live 20-30 years, depending on their size and how well they are cared for.

Suggested Bird Cage: The Somerzby Buddy bird cage is well suited to a smaller sized conure, which can be seen here.

Dove and Pigeon

Doves and pigeons are the same thing, although some people in different areas will use the terms separately to describe birds of different size, colour, etc.
Doves are very gentle. They make soft cooing noises almost constantly. Whilst they can be timid around people, socialising them can assist with this.

Doves typically live for 10 years, however some have lived as long as 25 years.
Doves require a large and wide aviary so that they can fly around. They spend time on the ground foraging so it must be a cage without a wire base.

They don’t need toys like parrots but do need baths and perches. They are happiest when living with other doves.

Eclectus Parrot

Eclectus are large parrots native to Australia. They come in very bright colours and are sexually dimorphic – the males are green and the females are red!
They can be very intelligent, with males generally being easiest to train.

Eclectus enjoy routine. They mix well with other types of birds although can be a bit jealous sometimes.

They are generally quiet but do make a distinctive honking noise and can be taught to speak.
Eclectus usually live to 30 years old, however some have lived up to 50.

Finch

There are many types of finch. Technically, a canary is a finch. Other common types of finch include zebra finches and society finches.

Finches are small birds with strong, conical beaks. They love living in flocks so it is best to own more than one. Finches don’t like to be handled so they make a great pet for those who want to watch their birds but have limited interaction with them.

Finches can live up to 10 years, and whilst they require less space than most birds due to their size, they will require a cage large enough for them to fly around.

Indian Ringneck Parakeet

Indian ringneck parakeets are a medium sized parrot. They come in many bright colours but are typically green with coloured bands around their neck.

Indian ringneck parakeets can be prone to biting or chewing things when bored or not handled regularly. They have a very high-pitched voice and can learn to speak.

They make great guard birds – they will instinctively screech and alert you of any danger.
Indian ringneck parakeets typically live for 25-30 years.

You will need a cage large enough to accommodate its long tail and enough room to move and play when you are not there.

Suggested Bird Cage: We recommend the Somerzby Buddy bird cage, which can be seen here.

Lovebird

Lovebirds are a small parrot, sometimes called a ‘pocket parrot’. They are known for their bright colours. Lovebirds are very active and sociable. They can also be very territorial if not handled from a young age.

Whilst not overly noisy, they will make chirping noises and can screech when demanding attention.
Lovebirds can live up to 15 years.

You will need a cage that gives your lovebird enough space to flap its wings and exercise.

Suggested Bird Cage: The Somerzby Buddy bird cage will keep your lovebird very happy! It can be seen here.

Macaw

There are different species of macaw including the blue and gold, greenwing, hyacinth, Hahn’s, and scarlet macaws. Whilst they vary in size, they are all large. Macaws are very distinctive and come in many bright colours.

They are intelligent and can be trained to speak plus perform tricks. Macaws are very messy and very loud. They are one of the most challenging birds and can become destructive or aggressive if not cared for properly or regularly handled.

Macaws can live 30-50 years depending on their size and how well they are cared for. Macaws require a large and strong cage. They are active and will need to be let out daily for exercise.

Parrotlet

Parrotlets are the smallest type of parrot. Their size and quiet nature make them a great choice for bird owners who live in apartments or have close neighbours.

If handled daily, they can be very affectionate. They can become aggressive towards other birds and territorial over their cage so many people choose to only keep one.

Whilst some will learn to talk and do tricks, it is not one of their strong traits. They will make chirping and screeching noises but have soft voices. Parrotlets can live 20 to 30 years.

Suggested Bird Cage: The Somerzby Buddy bird cage is suitable for a parrotlet. Click here to view.

Quaker Parrot

Quaker parrots, also known as monk parakeets, are medium sized parrots.

They are very social and active. Quakers will bond strongly with their owner (usually one person more than others) and enjoy cuddling and pats. They tend to make a lot of little noises and can learn to talk.

They can be territorial of their cage so always introduce two quakers on neutral territory. Due to their fearless nature, they generally don’t mix well with other pets such as dogs and cats.

Quaker parrots can live 20 to 30 years.

Suggested Bird Cage: We recommend the Somerzby Buddy bird cage for your pet quaker parrot. It can be seen here.
February 18, 2019
How to Live Eco Friendly With Your Pets
With climate change and waste pollution issues being raised, we’re all trying to live a little greener. One of the best places to start an eco-friendly lifestyle is with your pets.

Whether you’re trying to reduce your carbon “paw print” or wanting to introduce animals to have a greener home, these tips will help you take care of our planet with your pets.

Ways to Be Eco-Friendly with Your Household Pets

No matter what animal you have these tips will help make your home a little greener.

One of the best places to start is trying to reduce waste in your household. Making a few simple changes will keep the garbage bin lighter, and our landfills smaller.
- Swap out single use items for something reusable. Ditch the paper towels and use hand or tea towels that are machine washable.
- Reusable bags don’t have to be just for shopping – remember to take them along with your next trip to the Pet store when buying food or products.
- Check the labels on your packaging to see if it can be recycled.
- Cans of food, boxes of treats, and plastic medicine bottles are all recyclable.
- Plastic meat trays can be recycled, but black polystyrene may not be so check with your local Council.
- What can you make at home? Making your own treats and food is a great way to cut down cost and reduce packaging waste.
- Getting meat at the butchers? You can bring your own reusable container or bag for them to package your meat and save the plastic bags and wrap.
- Where you put your pet’s poop can matter too. Swap out plastic bags for biodegradable bags, and choose all-natural, biodegradable cat litter.
- Go one better and start composting your pet waste. You can buy ready made pet waste compost bins or cut costs and make your own.
- If you feed your pet table scraps or food on a paper plate, swap that out for a reusable plate.
- Designate a plate everyone knows is for the pet and store it away from regular dishes.
- Stop using plastic bottles. One million plastic bottles are bought every minute around the world, and many aren’t recycled and end up in landfill.
- Install a filter on your tap water and use a washable bottle when taking water for your pets when you go out.
- Need bedding for your guinea pig or rabbit hutch? Recycle old paper, letters, and newspaper by shredding them for bedding use.
- Think before you throw. While you might not need them anymore, some products can be reused in other ways.
- Call your local RSPCA or shelter to check if they could use any of your old items, sell items at a garage sale or through Gumtree, or organise a swap with friends.
- Some items could be reused for other purposes too – food cans can be turned into plant containers, and old bedding could be used as cleaning rags.
What About When You’re Shopping?

When shopping for your pet products you can try to choose earth-friendly alternatives. Use these tips when you’re next at the pet store – and don’t forget the green bags!
- Try and buy eco-friendly labelled products whenever possible.
- Choose toys that have been made with recycled or plant-based materials.
- Avoiding plastic is always a good idea – think glass food bowls, wooden toys, and recycled bedding.Ditch the chemicals.
- When buying cleaning products look for non-harmful green chemicals which will help limit air and water pollution. Recycled packaging is a big plus too.
- You might not even need to buy cleaning products if you have everything available in your pantry.
- A popular carpet deodoriser recipe just uses bi-carb soda, borax, and your favourite essential oil.
- When thinking of DIY recipes, remember there’s not much vinegar and baking soda can’t clean. Making your own recipes helps cut costs too.
- Buying items in bulk is another great way to save money and reduce packaging.
- Switch to sustainable pet food as well. It’s reported that beef production uses a lot more resources than chicken or rabbit.
- Choose tuna brands that fish responsibly and avoid destructive methods.
- Check if your cat’s favourite tuna is doing things green – download a free guide at changeyourtuna.org.au thanks to Greenpeace.
- When you’re buying a product, make sure that’s durable and going to last a long time. Having to replace items can become costly and just means more waste going to landfill.
- Wooden coops, kennels, or other enclosures are a lot more environmentally friendly than metal or plastic. If the wood is untreated it can even be put into the green-waste bin.
- Choose companies that only source wood from plantations instead of rainforests. All our pet products use wood that is rot-resistant fir grown in sustainable plantations.
Looking to Get a New Pet?

Thinking of adopting a new furry, feathered, or scaled friend into the family? Be eco conscious when buying and try to start your new pet’s life off with a green start.

If you want to go with a breeder, thoroughly research your breeder of choice and ensure they’re using ethical practices. A little investigation can go a long way in ensuring your new animal is coming from a healthy home.

Adopt Don’t Shop!

When buying a new animal, always try to look to rescues and shelters first. Animal shelters are often overcrowded, and many animals are stuck in limbo waiting for a forever home.

Helping to reduce this will save precious resources that shelters desperately need.

Check out your local RSPCA or rescue centre. We love our local shelters Claws N Paws, RSPCA, Central Coast Animal Care Facility,

Wally’s Doggie Rescue, and Tiki Animal Rescue. They’re all doing amazing work taking care of so many sweet souls, and what better way to start off your new pet parenthood than by adopting?

Remember that the more pets there are in the world, the more resources that are being used. Always spay and neuter your animals to help prevent unwanted litters. This will help ease shelter overcrowding too

Some of our local animal shelters on the Central Coast:
Want to Save a Life?

Adopt a factory-farmed animal doomed for slaughter.

Thousands of hens are killed once their egg-laying days are over. These factory farms often have miserable conditions and use unethical practices.

They’re all about quantity over quality, meaning a lot more waste ending up in landfills too.

Consider rescuing a sweet hen and showing her a better life. There are many adoption programs and rescue groups across Australia.

Some adoption programs include:
- Edgar’s Mission (VIC)
- Lefty’s Place Hen Rescue (VIC)
- NSW Hen Rescue (NSW)
- Emma’s Chooks (QLD)
- Freedom Hill Sanctuary (SA)
- The Battery Hen Adoption Project (QLD)
- Brightside Sanctuary (TAS)
- Big Ears Sanctuary (TAS)
What If We Could Stop the Problem at the Source?

Consider greening up your diet and eating more vegetarian and vegan meals.

Worldwide, farmed animals produce more greenhouse gas emissions than the entire transport system. Reducing demand for products like battery eggs or farmed animals can drastically reduce your carbon footprint.

Also try to buy local. Doing this not only helps local businesses, but also cuts down on products needing to be transported over long distances.

Chickens and the Environment

Our favourite feathered friends are a great way to start making your household greener.

Chooks have several benefits including eating old veggie and garden scraps, chomping up bugs so you can avoid that toxic garden spray, and ensuring your breakfast eggs are coming from an environmentally friendly and ethical place.

What About Fish?

Prefer aquatic friends and wondering if you can make your fish greener?

Ditch the rainbow coloured flakes and buy natural fish foods. Want some updated aquarium decorations?

Look for ways to repurpose old items.

Reuse, donate, or sell old or leaking aquariums. That old broken fish tank could be turned into a reptile habitat, an art project or a garden section.

If you have freshwater fish, try using old tank water in the garden or compost pile. It’s full of nutrients and saves water resources.

Steer Clear of Exotic Pets

Exotic animals are often on protected or endangered lists, and there’s a high chance your exotic pet was procured illegally. This is not only devastating for the animal but can severely upset our natural wildlife.

It’s difficult for Australia to keep track of how many exotic pets there are because they typically don’t need to be registered with Council.

Popular exotic birds such as the Rose-Ringed Parakeet are often reported as escaped. This could have dire consequences as many of these birds are considered a serious agricultural pest.

If you want to keep an exotic pet, ensure you’re being a responsible owner. Always report a missing pet to your state or territory biosecurity agency.

Keeping our precious resources safe is one of the biggest motivations for living a greener lifestyle.
July 19, 2018
Afterpay for Chicken Coops, Rabbit Hutches and Somerzby Pet Products
Somerzby are looking to the future and that future means listening to our customers about their preferred payment methods.

Gone are the days of spending up large on multiple credit cards with ramped up interest charges or signing up to complex hire purchase agreements with dubious fine print conditions.

Today’s customers want to be able to shop online and purchase in comfort and security with easy payment options.

Modern customers are increasingly tech savvy and also want to preserve their privacy. The wildly popular Afterpay platform was created to fill just those needs and is going from strength to strength.

Afterpay already has more than 53,000 followers on Facebook.

Somerzby recognised the need for a payment platform that allowed customers to purchase and enjoy our products now and pay later but without the painful credit fees.

That’s why we have added Afterpay as a payment option for you in our online store.

What is Afterpay?

Afterpay is an exciting new payment platform that allows you to purchase and receive goods immediately but pay them off in instalments without incurring any credit fees or other costs.

Afterpay is the exciting new tech innovation that meets your need for a payment option that really looks after your private information and ensures your money goes to purchasing the things you need and want without handing a percentage to the banks.

Afterpay is your perfect shopping partner when you shop with Somerzby. Simply choose Afterpay as your payment option at checkout—it’s so easy.

Afterpay means you get to:
- Enjoy your purchase immediately
- Pay for your purchase in four easy fortnightly instalments
- Forget about credit fees or extra charges
- Purchase online without having to hand over your personal details
Savvy credit card users know to pay off their debts in full before incurring interest but with Afterpay you don’t even have to think about making the payments at all, as your nominated debit card (or credit card) will be automatically debited on the instalment due date.

You can log on to your Afterpay account at any time to keep tabs on your purchases and payment history.

The popularity of Afterpay is going through the roof—more than 15% of online shoppers are now using Afterpay as their preferred method of payment.

Why Is Afterpay Perfect For Online Shopping?

Online shopping has become the preferred form of shopping for many people today.

You love the convenience, ease, the enormous range and the amazing bargains available but constantly handing over your personal banking information to every online store you visit is a real drag and a very real security risk.

Add the varying standards of online store banking security and you could find yourself the latest victim of a hacking scam.

Afterpay means you never have to hand over your financial details to an online store again.

Simply log in to Afterpay, choose your preferred store and the items you want to purchase and then nominate Afterpay as your payment option at checkout.

You will receive a purchase confirmation email detailing the dates of your payment instalments and the amounts of each instalment.

New customers will pay the first instalment up front (and also for purchases over $500) whereas existing Afterpay customers will pay their first instalment after two weeks.

Afterpay will guarantee payment to the merchant and the merchant will ship your items immediately to you.

It’s that easy and the online store will never know your financial details.

Afterpay has taken online shopping to a whole new level of security, peace of mind and convenience.

What Will It Cost Me?

Absolutely nothing.

That’s the great thing about Afterpay—it costs you nothing—no interest or credit fees or handling charges.

Afterpay is leading the revolution away from debt inducing credit cards with their punitive interest rates.

Yes, you can link your Afterpay to your credit card but according to Afterpay founder, Nick Molnar, some 85% of Afterpay users use debit cards to pay off the instalments and this trend is growing.

Yes, there may be a modest late payment fee if you miss an installment and don’t make alternative arrangements to pay.

But Afterpay encourages responsible spending by simply preventing you from making any further purchases until you have paid your Afterpay debts.

Afterpay knows that you will love the Afterpay experience so much that refusal of service will guarantee prompt payments of debts.

What If I’m Not Happy With My Purchase?

Afterpay is committed to creating a great shopping experience for both customers and merchants.

If you are not satisfied with any of our Somerzby products simply return them to us in good condition (in the original packaging) within 30 days and we will gladly refund the purchase price minus any Afterpay fees.

Once we have received the goods back we simply instruct Afterpay to refund the amount back to your account.

This may take a few days depending on your bank’s processes but rest assured Afterpay has you covered.

Is Afterpay Safe?

Here at Somerzby we take your financial security very seriously—that’s why we’re happy to use Afterpay,and ZipPay as payment options for our ecommerce online store

Afterpay is fully compliant with all the requirements of the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council.

Afterpay is recognised as a PCI DSS Level 1 certified compliant Service Provider organisation—this represents the highest level of security, safe handling, and storage for financial transactions and personal information.

When you shop with Afterpay you know that not only your financial details are safe but your personal information also is protected.

Afterpay is the innovative, painless way to ensure you are looking after your loved pets with all the best and latest Somerzby products.
May 25, 2018
Somerzby Christmas Competition
Christmas Facebook Competition

For your chance to win a Somerzby Cottage –

We want to see your Somerzby hutch, coop or enclosure decorated in the Christmas Spirit.

Think Christmas lights, tinsel, or any other decorations of your choice.

For your chance to be the lucky owner of a Somerzby Cottage, simply post a photo of your Somerzby enclosure with all its decorations to our Facebook page.

The Winner will be announced on the 18th December 2016.

Your brand new Somerzby Cottage should arrive just in time for Christmas! What a treat for the kids.

Conditions are:

• Entries close 23:59 AEDT 17/12/16.
• Only valid within Australia.
• Photos much include an existing Somerzby, hutch, coop or enclosure.

We found these lovely examples below online – happy decorating!

Win the Somerzby Cottage Chicken Coop

All new style, adorable Coop available in 3 colours!

With easy clean and access, the Somerzby Cottage is one of the favourites with Children and adults alike, it is the perfect fit for a smaller backyard.

It is easy to clean with a Metal pull out tray and one complete side of the Coop forms a door.

The attached run also features 2 Large opening doors for easy access to your Chooks and ease of cleaning.

Features
- Complete side opening door
- Metal pull out tray for easy cleaning
- Door to sleeping area can open and close
- Rot resistant Fir Wood
- Water proof grey/green asphalt roof
- Water based non toxic stain
- Galvanised mesh wire
- Available in Pink with white trim, Blue with White Trim or Classic Brown and Green
- Nesting box – W500mm x H320mm x D320mm approx
- 2 large opening doors on run
- 1 perch
- Suitable for approx 2 chickens, if you let them out for daily runs or 3 rabbits
Enter today and this could be all yours!

Merry Christmas from all of us at Somerzby.
November 29, 2016
Adopting a Pet

Adopting a pet is a selfless act thousands and thousands of animal lovers commit each and every year. Caring for an animal can be a rewarding experience, and adopting a pet from a local shelter often makes the bond between pet and pet owner that much stronger.

Remember that owning a pet is a huge responsibility. Before signing any papers, consider the following do’s and don’ts of pet adoption.

Pet Adoption – DO

Do – Know why you’re adopting a pet

Choose the right pet for you and your family.

Ask yourself why you want to adopt a pet before beginning the process. There are many reasons for adopting a pet, be it companionship, a gift for the kids or to fill the void left by a recently deceased pet. Before beginning the process, you should always determine the reason for adoption. If the reason is viable, continue with the process.

Do – Choose the right pet

Choosing the right pet involves more than finding the friendliest puppy or the cutest kitten. While compatibility is important, it’s often additional factors that determine if a pet and pet owner are a good match. These factors include space restrictions in the home, amount of time spent in the home and the presence of others, be it children or roommates.

Do – Be willing to train the pet

Pet adoption candidates should be willing to train the animal, as effective training opens the channels of communication and results in a longer, healthier relationship. Consider everything that goes into being a pet owner.

Pet Adoption – DO NOT

Do Not – Adopt on a whim

Adopting a pet without carefully considering all the pros and cons is a great way to find yourself returning the pet to a shelter. Shelter animals are often most victimized by adopting on a whim, as the cost of adoption greatly pales in comparison to purchasing an animal from a breeder. Because those adoption fees are so low, it’s not uncommon to write off the fee as a loss and return the animal to the shelter.

Do Not – Adopt if finances aren’t great

Pets make great companions, but they can also be expensive. Always make an honest assessment of your finances to determine if you can truly afford to have a pet. The cost of pet ownership extends well beyond the initial adoption fee, as pets need food, shelter and sometimes medication just like their human counterparts.

Do Not – Consider pet adoption a minor commitment

Pet adoption requires a significant commitment that will no doubt alter a person’s lifestyle considerably. Men and women who enter the adoption process with a carefree attitude are likely to be among the many people who unfortunately return their animals to shelters every year. If you’re not willing to make that lifestyle change or commit fully to the animal, don’t adopt.

Once you have considered all these factors, the next decision will be where to adopt your pet from?
Know your options before deciding where you will adopt your pet from

Where to Adopt

Shelter – Shelters sometimes take stray animals on behalf of local councils, but generally, they are privately owned charities run by local animal welfare organizations such as the RSPCA or Animal Welfare League. Some Accept surrenders from the public, but they often have a waiting list due to space constraints.

Shelters generally assess the animal’s health and temperament before re- homing to ensure they are fit to join a family.

Rescue – Rescue groups that call themselves ‘breed rescue’ or ‘foster care groups’ are generally a collaboration of animal loving volunteers in the community providing a safety net for rescue pets.

Some have kennels, but often these people care for the pets in their homes. They take in the overflow of pets from pounds and shelters and sometimes direct from the public.

The benefit of adopting from an independent rescue group is that the animals haven’t been through the stress of kennelling- Instead, they have been assessed in a home environment, so they can be accurately matched to suit your family and lifestyle.

Pound – A pound is a council run facility that holds pets seized by rangers or found wandering in the community. It’s often the first place a lost pet will end up. By law, stray pets must be kept for several days to give their owners a chance to reclaim them, after which they are euthanized or rehomed.

These facilities are open to the public and you can adopt pets directly from the pound, but be aware they usually haven’t been screened for health or temperament issues.

Pet Adoption Preparation

Be prepared, including for the trip home a Somerzby Pet Crate is perfect for transporting your new pet

Before you collect your pet don’t forget to consider how you will transport them home. We recommend a Somerzby pet crate. Our pet crates are collapsible and easy to transport. Somerzby pet crates are made from high-quality black electro-coated wire and are available a variety of sizes from small to XXL.

Remember that your newly adopted pet will need to have food, bedding, toys and a collar and leash if you adopt a dog.

Cats will also need a scratching post and a litter box. We also recommend a Somerzby Cat Enclosure – which offers a spacious, safe, and practical place to secure your cat overnight or when they are outdoors.

Optional add-on Cat Runs give you the flexibility to adapt the enclosures to your needs and requirements.

May 9, 2016
Going on Holidays When You Have a Pet

Going on Holidays When You Have Pets

We all love a holiday, but what do you do with your beloved furry family member? Depending on your destination, accommodation and if it will be safe for your pet, Do you take them with you? Or leave them behind with a carer or in a boarding kennel? Picking a holiday destination can be a tough choice, and so is deciding what to do with your pet! Here’s are our tips from the Somerzby team that may help you decide:

Up to Date

Before heading off on holiday, make sure your pet’s microchip information is up to date. If you haven’t had your pet micro chipped – get this done along with any vaccinations. This will help protect them and also if they wonder off, that handy micro chip will help let the vet or council know who owns them.

To Holiday or Not to Holiday

When deciding if you should take your pet away with you there are a few things to consider first;

Accommodation Is it pet friendly? Ensure before you leave that your accommodation allows pets, you don’t want to wait till you get there to find out they don’t.

Safety If you have a dog, cat or small animal, is there a fenced yard or grassed area for them to have a playpen? Make sure there is adequate room for your pet and that it’s safe for them.

Destination Is it safe for your pet? Are there walking trails or activities for you to do with them? There is no point taking your pet with you if you can’t include them in your holiday activities. Look into the area and see what’s around before booking or taking your pet with you.

Travelling How long will it take you to get to your destination? – Keep in mind, you will need to make frequent stops to let your pet go to the toilet and also exercise.

Does your pet travel well? If your pet get anxious in the car or away from home, it’s best to leave them at home with someone. Travelling in a car can stress some pets out and you also need to make sure they are safe when travelling. Ensure your pet is either in a crate, or ensure your pet is in a seatbelt harness.

The Somerzby pet crates are perfect for transporting your pet when going on holidays.

Our Somerzby pet crates are great for travel and will also provide a sleep area for your pet while on holidays.

Friendly – Is your pet friendly and do they get along well with others? You need to consider if your pet is good at interacting with other pets/animals and isn’t aggressive around them or other people. Children can be unpredictable and some pets can become aggressive or frightened by sudden movements.

Leaving Your Pet at Home Whilst on Holidays

Pet sitters, boarding kennels and pet spas or resorts- these are just a few of the choices you have if you leave your pet behind. When choosing one think about your pet and their needs and how they may feel and get along with other pets/animals.

Pet sitters or a family member is a great choice if your pet doesn’t cope well with a big change, travelling in car, or doesn’t get along with other pets/animals. Make sure the person who is taking care of them understands your pets needs and are able to play with them and walk them if needed.

Make sure you leave any emergency contacts for them, including your vet’s phone number. Your pet’s routine- this will help your pet feel more relaxed around whoever is taking care of them. Leave any leashes or collars out in the open so they are easy for your pet sitter/carer to find.

Dietary requirements leave food in a visible and easy to reach spot for your pet’s carer, include any special dietary requirements that your pet might have or list foods that they are not allowed to eat.

It’s also handy to have treats available for the carer to give your pet. This way they can reward your pet while you’re away and this can also help your pet feel more at ease. If it’s possible, have your pet sitter come to your home before you leave so you can show them where everything is and your pet can meet them and get used to their scent.

Boarding kennels or pet spas are another great way for your pet to be looked after; this is great for a mini holiday for your pet too.

Make sure you visit the kennels or spas before leaving your pet there and ensure that your pet will receive enough exercise and the facilities are clean, tidy and safe.

If you choose to take your pet with you on holidays remember to plan for rest breaks and pet safety.

Taking Your Pet on Holidays With You

You checked the accommodation and the area is pet friendly, so you and your pet are ready for your holiday!

Try to make your pet as comfortable as possible while travelling, this will help to reduce any anxiety or stress they may have. Take any bedding that they have with you, along with their drink and food bowls.

When travelling, make sure that your pet is safe – they should be either in a crate or strapped in with a car seat harness. If you are travelling with your pet in a crate make sure there are no heavy or loose items that can fly around and injure or harm your pet. Put a clip on water bottle in the crate for your pet. Our crates at Somerzby are great for travelling with as they are collapsible and easy to use Click Here to see the range. These crates can also be used as bed/kennel for your pet while on holidays.

Don’t forget to stop for breaks so your pet can relieve themselves, have a drink, some food and stretch their legs.

When you arrive at your destination, explore the area and accommodation together. Never leave your pet alone in a strange environment. Make sure your pet is secure; check all gates and fences at your accommodation.

Consider using a playpen, playpens are a great way to help keep your pet safe and to help you keep an eye on them. Our Somerzby playpens are easy to transport as they are collapsible and come with or without covers. Click here to see the range.

Once you and your pet have settled and unpacked – it’s time to relax or head to the beach……don’t forget the sunscreen.

March 17, 2016
Keep Your Pets Cool in Summer
Keeping your Pet Cool in the Summer Heat

Heat and humidity can make some summer days very uncomfortable, not just for us but also for our pets. Most pets are susceptible to similar dangers that we face in the heat- including heatstroke and sunburn.

For older, small or otherwise fragile pets, at times heat can prove fatal. The RSPCA states that “It is vital that animals have constant access to both water and shade, as heat stress can develop extremely quickly in hot weather during summer.

Read on for our top tips on keeping your pet/s healthy and cool this summer.

Basic Pet Heat Safety Guidelines

Never leave any pet/s confined to a car- (this is dangerous even if the windows are open and the car is parked in the shade).

Never leave your pets in a situation where they do not have access to shade, ventilation and fresh drinking water.

Take it easy – On a hot day, do not encourage your pet to run around or play, instead encourage rest and moderate activity only.

Keep your pet cool with a frozen water bottle.

Keeping Your Pet Cool – Our Top Tips
- Provide plenty of shade, all day long – install shade cloth/ shade sails or use shade umbrellas to provide shelter from the heat. Consider using pet sunscreen to protect from sunburn.
- Consider allowing outdoor animals inside access to a room cooled by electric fans or air conditioning.
- Ensure your pet has access to water all day long- keep an eye on their water bowl/s, top it up as needed and try to keep it in the shade. Consider adding extra water bowl/s on a hot day.
- Add ice cubes to water bowls (Keep an eye on your pet to make sure they are not scared by this and will continue to drink their water)
- Some pets often tip over their water bowl, consider using one made of heavy material to prevent it tipping (e.g. ceramic).
- Provide access to water for cooling off in the shade, e.g. a wading pool, or a wet towel. Always supervise your animals around a wading pool.
- Fill a small plastic bottle with water and leave it in the freezer overnight. The next morning, wrap it in a tool and place it in your pets favorite lounging spot.
- For indoor pets- keep your curtains closed on a hot day to keep the room cooler.
- Fill a water bottle or or empty milk bottle with water and freeze. Add it to a rabbit/guinea pig hutch or Chicken coop. Your pets will lay next to the bottle to keep cool.
- Do NOT use freezer packs/ice bricks as rabbits and other animals can chew them and they may contain hazardous contents.
Keeping Your Dog or Cat Cool

A paddling pool is great (for supervised play).
- Elevate your pets bed to allow air to circulate underneath, which will help keep them cool.
- For cats/dogs with long fur- a haircut may be beneficial, provided they have shelter from the sun so as not to get sunburn. Even just shaving a cats stomach can help.
- Cats cool themselves down by licking their fur. You can help by using a damp cloth or paper towel to stroke your cat.
- Always walk your dog in the early morning or late evening to avoid the heat of the day.
- Consider making iceblocks for your kitty. Place wet cat food and water in the bottom of a plastic bowl or cup and leave overnight to freeze. Place in your cats bowl the next day for a cool tasty treat.
Keeping your Chickens Cool
- Provide small bags of ice, wrap them in wet towels and place them in the coop.
- Spray chooks with a mist pump spray bottle ( if they like it!) or install a bird bath for supervised use.
- Drape their coop with cool wet towels
- Consider using ice to cool down the coop, by placing an ice pack underneath the coop.
Keeping Your Rabbit/Guinea Pigs Cool
- Provide small bags of ice, wrap them in wet towels and place them in the hutch.
- Drape their enclosure with cool wet towels
- Place a ceramic tile or marble square in your pets favorite rest area, provided it is out of the sun. Lying on it will help them cool down.
- Mist your bunnies ears. Rabbits lose heat through their ears and misting them will help keep the rabbit cool.
- Consider using ice to cool down the coop, by placing an ice brick underneath their hutch.
- Fill a water bottle or or empty milk bottle with water and freeze. Add it to a rabbit/guinea pig hutch or Chicken coop. Your pets will lay next to the bottle to keep cool.
- Do NOT use freezer packs/ice bricks as rabbits and other animals can chew them and they may contain hazardous contents.
January 25, 2016