One of the very first things I hear when telling my friends about wanting to get a parrot (Eclectus) is - "Eeeewwww they are SO messy and your house will STINK!!!"
So - how bad is it really? I know Eclectus aren't supposed to put off as much dander and dust as other birds.... but what about feathers? Do they shed all over the place? And what cleaning products are safe to use? Most of the stuff I associate with that "super clean" smell are things like Pine-sol and Mr. Clean!!! Do those types of cleaners contain too many harsh chemicals that could hurt a bird? And what is the best way to keep the poop smell under control?
Many years ago we had a breeder pair of African Grey's and they WERE a mess - but they were non social and kept in their own room so the mess was contained to that one room. If I got an Eclectus it would be more of a part of the family. I read about people letting their birds follow them around the house and everything. I would LOVE that... but I'm concerned with getting poop everywhere!
So - how bad is it really? I know Eclectus aren't supposed to put off as much dander and dust as other birds.... but what about feathers? Do they shed all over the place? And what cleaning products are safe to use? Most of the stuff I associate with that "super clean" smell are things like Pine-sol and Mr. Clean!!! Do those types of cleaners contain too many harsh chemicals that could hurt a bird? And what is the best way to keep the poop smell under control?
Many years ago we had a breeder pair of African Grey's and they WERE a mess - but they were non social and kept in their own room so the mess was contained to that one room. If I got an Eclectus it would be more of a part of the family. I read about people letting their birds follow them around the house and everything. I would LOVE that... but I'm concerned with getting poop everywhere!