Spring Cleaning Checklist for Exotic Pet Owners 🌿

Happy Spring! Spring is in the air, and that means it's the perfect time for a fresh start—for you and your exotic pets! Whether you live with a chatty cockatiel, a curious crested gecko, or a snuggly guinea pig, seasonal cleaning helps ensure their habitats are safe, comfortable, and ready for warmer days. We've put together a quick and easy checklist to guide you through spring maintenance for your feathered, scaled, or furry family members.

Spring Cleaning Tasks to Keep Exotic Pets Happy & Healthy

Clean and Sanitize Enclosures 

Start with a deep clean of your pet’s home. This includes:

• Scrubbing cages, terrariums, or enclosures

• Replacing substrate or bedding

• Disinfecting perches, platforms, or hides

• Wiping down hard surfaces with pet-safe cleaner

Fresh environments = happy pets!

Replace Damaged or Worn Gear

Inspect everything from heat lamps to hammocks. Replace:

• Frayed climbing ropes or perches

• Cracked hides or tunnels

• UV bulbs past their prime

• Anything loose, chewed, or unsafe

Update ID Bands & Microchip Info

If your bird wears an ID band or your reptile is microchipped, now’s the time to:

• Verify your contact details are up to date

• Notify your vet of any address or phone number changes

Don’t Forget These Safety & Wellness Essentials

Check Enclosure Safety and Integrity

Look for:

• Loose or broken cage bars

• Damaged mesh or screen lids

• Any spots a clever critter might sneak through

Make any necessary repairs before your pet finds the loophole!

Schedule a Wellness Exam

Exotic pets are pros at hiding illness. A spring vet visit can:

• Catch health issues early

• Get your pet’s weight, diet, and supplement needs evaluated

• Provide peace of mind going into the season

Test Microchips

If your exotic pet is microchipped, ask your vet to scan it and verify it still reads correctly—just in case.

Check Supplies & Toss the Old Stuff

Replenish Supplements & Medications 

Take inventory and stock up on:

• Vitamins and calcium

• UVB lighting supplies

• Prescription meds or emergency first-aid needs

Toss Expired Products

Check expiration dates and safely dispose of:

• Food (pellets, seed, frozen feeders)

• Supplements and medications

Wrap Up: A Little Prep Goes a Long Way 🐾

A clean, safe environment is essential for your exotic pet's health and happiness. With this seasonal checklist, you'll be one step ahead and ready to enjoy spring with your feathery, scaly, or fuzzy companion by your side.

Need a helping hand while you’re away? Bird Girl Pet Services offers expert-level care for birds, reptiles, and small mammals right here in Nassau County. Contact us today and give your exotic pet the care they deserve!