Vinegar

[Michael]

You mean the parrot's drinking water???

[triplebbirds]

yup sure do. just as many benefits for them as for us.

[Heather]

I've heard about putting the apple cider vinegar in the water, too.

Haven't tried it myself yet, but I plan to .

[Michael]

Personally I have a "do no harm" philosophy when it comes to my parrot. I would be worried about trying cider or vinegar without knowing what the bird's reaction to it might be. I know that giving exclusively water will not do harm to my bird. The possible benefit of putting new things in the water (except perhaps bird vitamins which have been tested on birds and used by other owners) does not outweigh my caution in case it's harmful.

For instance I've heard both sides in regards to using colored newspapers to line cage bottoms. Some say they are harmful and others say they are not. So guess what? I just use black ones and not colored ones cause everyone considers them safe.

[triplebbirds]

there are so many articles on it. Its not a secret. At least not around here. I knew about its benefits to people and then came accross an article on it. So we started adding it in the drinking water. Very small amount at first. Also we have a well and the birds drink from that water. unless they are on handfeeding then they get water from the spring down the road. Ok were country people. But the apple cidet vinegar does a lot for them. But with everything check with your vet and make your own decision.

but hey to each is own.

[Michael]

What makes you think it's good for them?

[triplebbirds]

its been known to be good for people for just about ever. Then do a basic search on apple cider vinegar benefits. Then look for pets. You would find all sorts of info. But if your worried about it being toxic or harmful then it shouldnt be used in cleaning. IMHO. But here is a good starter info site for you.

[pchela]

A quick search turned up this. http://www.naturalbird.com/mcwatters/acv_for_birds.htm

I've been told to never add anything to their drinking water as bacteria can grow so quickly. This includes bird vitamins that are meant for the water. If you use them, I'd put them in the food instead though if you feed a well rounded diet you shouldn't need extra vitamins.

[triplebbirds]

http://avianweb.com/vinegar.html
Sorry hit post and didnt add the website i had on favorites. There are many more sites on this.

[Heather]

I believe it was in Parrots for Dummies, but the author mentioned that she places only one or two drops in her birds' water, and it slows the growth of bacteria.