MENU
Shop Now!

Bathing Instructions for Cockatoos Using Showerbird®

Environmental Background:
Cockatoos in the Wild 🌏

  • Native to Australia, Indonesia, New Guinea, and surrounding islands.
  • Cockatoos thrive in tropical and subtropical climates, often bathing in rainfall, morning
    dew, or by fluttering through wet foliage.
  • Their natural environment features warm temperatures, high humidity, and gentle rainfall — conditions that the Showerbird mist is designed to mimic.

Setup Instructions

Frequency

  • 2–3 times per week minimum.
  • Increase during molting or in dry indoor climates (e.g., heated homes during winter).
  • Watch your bird’s behavior — some cockatoos enjoy daily misting, while others prefer less frequent sessions.

Setup Steps:

  1. Attach the Showerbird® to your bathroom sink faucet or shower diverter, ensuring a secure fit with the quick-connect.
  2. Position the wand about 18–24 inches from the bird, with the mist arching over and gently falling like rain.
  3. Set up a safe perch:
  4. Use a non-slip shower perch or a t-stand placed in the tub or stall.
  5. Ensure it’s stable, and the bird feels secure (cockatoos can be wary of new setups).
  6. Use the provided Showerbird® non-slip mat for support under the T-Stand perch as Cockatoos can tip the T-Stand when excited.  

Water Temperature

  • Lukewarm water only (around 95°F / 35°C).
  • Avoid cold water — cockatoos are sensitive to chill.
  • Never use hot water — it can burn or stress the bird.

Mist Quality

  • Ensure the mist is fine and gentle, simulating light rainforest rain.
  • Avoid direct streams or pressure; the mist should land softly, encouraging preening behavior.

Bathing Process:

  1. Introduce gradually: Let the cockatoo watch the mist before being placed near it.
  2. Place the bird on the perch and allow it to explore the mist voluntarily.
  3. Observe body language:
    o Raised wings, head tilting, tail fanning = enjoying it.
    o Hunched body, fluffed feathers, trying to escape = reduce intensity or stop.
  4. Mist for 5–10 minutes or until the bird loses interest.

Post-Bath Care:

  • Let the cockatoo air dry in a warm, draft-free room.
  • Offer a clean, dry perch, and avoid drafts or air conditioning during drying.
  • You may gently pat dry the bird with a soft towel if needed (optional).

Habitat Simulation Tips

To replicate a rainforest experience, consider:

  • Playing ambient rainforest sounds during bath time.
  • Adding non-toxic live plants or fake foliage near the bathing area (out of reach).
  • Using a humidifier in dry environments to increase overall air moisture in the bird’s room.

Important Notes

  • Never force your cockatoo into the mist — this should be a positive experience.

  • Supervise at all times.

  • Ensure non-slip surfaces — cockatoos have strong feet but can be startled easily.

Your Cockatoo Deserves the Best — Bring the Rainforest Home

When you share your life with a bold Cockatoo, one thing is clear: they deserve to feel at home. With Showerbird®, you’re not just giving them a shower — you’re giving them back a vital part of their natural world.

Order your Showerbird® today and help your Cockatoo thrive — naturally.

SHOP NOW