How to Potty Train a Parrot

Parrot Potty Etiquette

Parrots are not the neatest creatures on earth but they can be trained to go potty by recognizing the words you use and then rewarding them with a treat. You choose which words you want your bird to understand as the "potty command". My husband uses the question, "Wanna go poo poo?" and Alex, our African Grey Parrot, is put on his portable perch and does the "Parrot Potty Dance" and is rewarded with a treat. The treat for him is more time and attention on his favorite person's knee. Or it can be a food or toy treat. Alex's favorite treats are: cashew nuts, popcorn, bananas, and crackers.

The results of his potty dance are easily swiped off the easy to clean perch with tissue. Much better than it hitting the floor your clothes when he is out of his cage spending time with his people.

Other possible phrases would be: "Do you want to go potty?" or "(bird's name), time to go potty." The use of his name will help him pay attention to your words and the sound of your voice. Birds will notice any emphasis or inflection you put on the words you use.

The "Parrot Potty Dance" is a cute way of completing a body function. He gets on his perch using a good grip and wiggles his lower body back and forth several times which helps his bowels to move. Sometimes he proudly looks down at his accomplishment.

Getting Started

To start the process so that eventually the parrot understands he will get a treat when he "goes", use the chosen phrase when he goes potty on his own. This will help him associate your words with his actions. Also, go ahead and reward him as if he did it on command and soon he will make the connection.

Most parrots enjoy their people talking to them and including them in their daily activities. It is "flock-like" and pet birds do think you are their flock and if they see you as dominant or in charge (which is important for training) they will see themselves as being a part of your flock and will look to you as their leader. Birds of a feather do flock together.

Benefits