Chapter 1: What Is a Parakeet?

Parakeet Basics.

Why Choose a Bird?

Parakeets and Children.

Chapter 2: The Parakeet’s History.

Birdkeeping Through the Ages.

The Parakeet’s Background.

Why Is the Parakeet So Popular?

Chapter 3: Choosing Your Parakeet.

Where Will You Get Your Parakeet?

Choosing the Right Parakeet.

Signs of Good Health.

Bringing Your Parakeet Home.

Part II: Caring for Your Parakeet.

Chapter 4: Home Sweet Home.

Choosing a Cage.

Setting up the Cage.

Location, Location.

More to Buy.

Safety Around the House.

Chapter 5: Everyday Care.

Be Alert to Health Indicators.

Cleaning the Cage.

Seasonal Needs.

Traveling with Your Bird.

Chapter 6: Feeding Your Parakeet.

A Healthy Diet.

Don’t Feed These to Your Bird!

Sharing People Food.

The Pelleted Diet Option.

Introducing New Foods.

Grit.

Supplements.

What About Water?

Chapter 7: Grooming Your Parakeet.

Preening.

Bathing.

Nail Trimming.

Wing Trimming.

Molting.

Wing Trimming Step by Step.

If Your Bird Escapes.

Are Mite Protectors Necessary?

Chapter 8: Keeping Your Parakeet Healthy.

Avian Anatomy.

Parakeet Senses.

Visiting the Veterinarian.

Signs of Illness.

Medicating Your Parakeet.

Alternative Health Treatments.

Parakeet Health Concerns.

Parakeet First Aid.

Your Parakeet’s First-Aid Kit.

Can You Catch Avian Flu from Your Bird?

Caring for Older Birds.

When Your Parakeet Dies.

Part III: Enjoying Your Parakeet.

Chapter 9: Parakeet Behavior.

Common Parakeet Behaviors.

Stress.

Chapter 10: Having Fun with Your Parakeet.

Taming Your Parakeet.

Toilet Training.

Naughty Parakeets.

Will My Parakeet Talk?

Tricks to Teach Your Parakeet.

Appendix: Learning More About Your Parakeet.

Books.

Magazines.

Online Resources.

Bird Clubs.

Pet Loss Resources.

Index.