- Proper care of show pigeons involves providing adequate housing, nutrition, hygiene, and medical attention.
- Baby pigeons require parental care and should be fed pigeon milk, produced by both parents, for the first few weeks of their life.
- A suitable cage for adult pigeons should be spacious, have proper protection from predators, and provide ample room for movement.
- Feeding pigeons a balanced diet that includes grains, seeds, vegetables, and supplements is crucial for their health.
- Maintaining proper hygiene, including cleaning the cage or loft regularly and providing fresh food and water, is essential for the well-being of pigeons.
Housing for Show Pigeons
Show pigeons require appropriate housing that ensures their safety, comfort, and well-being. The size of the cage or loft should provide enough space for the pigeons to move comfortably. A minimum cage size of 42 wide, 27 deep, and 30 high is recommended for one or two pigeons. The cage should also have proper protection from predators, such as cats and dogs, that may have access to the area. Additionally, the cage should be placed in a partially bright area where the pigeons can have access to sunlight, but not in direct sunlight. It is important to cover the cage at night to allow the pigeons to sleep peacefully.
Nutrition for Show Pigeons
Proper nutrition is crucial for the health and development of show pigeons. Pigeons should be provided with a balanced diet that includes grains, seeds, vegetables, and supplements. Pigeons can safely eat a wide variety of foods, including rice. It is important to give them a diet that includes vitamins, minerals, fat, proteins, and carbohydrates. Access to clean drinking water is essential for pigeons, and they also enjoy bathing a couple of times a week. The drinking water bowl should be at least 1 inch deep so that the pigeons can dip their whole beak in it to drink.
Hygiene and Medical Care for Show Pigeons
Maintaining proper hygiene and providing medical care are crucial aspects of show pigeon care. Regular cleaning of the cage or loft, including changing the floor covering and sterilizing the feed and water containers, is essential for the birds’ health. Feather care is also important, as fancy pigeons go through molting every year. Handling the birds during this period should be done carefully to avoid breaking blood feathers, which can cause bleeding. Injured pigeons require specialized care, including a specialized diet with additional protein, vitamins, and minerals to aid in tissue repair. It is important to create a peaceful and comfortable environment for injured pigeons by providing soft bedding, such as towels or blankets, and ensuring proper warmth.
Getting regular veterinary check-ups for show pigeons is also recommended to ensure their overall health and well-being.
Overall, taking care of show pigeons requires attention to their housing, nutrition, hygiene, and medical needs. By providing a suitable environment and proper care, show pigeon owners can ensure the health and well-being of their birds, allowing them to thrive in exhibitions and competitions.
