FlightSuit™ Conditioning Technique

When introducing your bird into a  FeatherWear FlightSuit™, we suggest you follow these steps:

1. Allow your bird to see the FlightSuit™ from a comfortable distance, so that it becomes accustomed to both the color and fabric. Minimum time: 2-3 days.

2. Over time, move the FlightSuit™ closer to the bird and cage. This process will be quicker for younger birds and longer for older birds. Minimum time: 2-3 days.

3. Pet or caress the bird with the FlightSuit. Hang the FlightSuit on or NEAR the cage (never in the cage), allowing the bird to examine the FlightSuit™. Minimum time: 1-2 days.

4. When you're both ready to test the FlightSuit™, remove the bird's food for 2-3 hours; put the FlightSuit™ on the bird and immediately reward by returning food or feeding. This serves as a positive reinforcement as well as a distraction.

5. The following positive reinforcements work well during FlightSuit™ training:

• Offer plenty of verbal praise.

• Give favorite treats: peas, corn or millet spray.

• Make for quality one-on-one time away from the cage.

• Treat bird to their favorite toy.

• Take bird outside for special outings.

6. Birds may nibble at the FlightSuit™ until they are accustomed to wearing it. To minimize the nibbling, you can use Bitter Apple Spray or aloe-vera based Cease on the FlightSuit™ (can be found at most pet stores).