Who doesn't just love the smell of cinnamon and spice and everything nice that translates into the holiday season. However those of us who share our homes with birds, often feel a little left out because scented candles and holiday air fresheners and plug ins, are almost always totally off limits in our homes. Most all of these items are deadly to our birds.
A general rule of thumb when it comes to candles, potpourri, plug ins, and air sprays, is the better it smells, the more toxic it probably is for our feathered friends. Essential oils are very toxic to birds.
So how do we join in the holiday spirit and spruce up our indoor smells beyond the pine scent of the live Christmas tree or fresh pine wreath over the mantle?
It is actually very simple indeed. Gather up some cooking spices such as ground cinnamon, cinnamon sticks, ground and/or whole cloves, and some ground pumpkin pie spice. Then find a warming pot such as one for potpourri or a small size coffee pot that has a warm setting, add water to fill and sprinkle a little or a lot of the spices that you prefer.
Now you too can enjoy all the wondrous smells of Christmas and the winter holidays without worrying if it is safe for your birds.
Caution Note: Do make sure the pot never dries out as it may damage your warming pot, or cause burned smells which would not be good for your bird. Unplug your unit when you are not at home to keep an eye on it.
1 comment:
Essential oils are toxic? I knew about the candles and plug-ins, but thought I was safe doing the oils! What a bummer. One more idea though- we also love the candles and have found a safe way to burn them: the fireplace!
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