Birds are extremely sensitive to inhalant fumes, and it is important for bird owners to be aware that any type of cookware - not just non-stick - can be harmful to your pet bird if left unattended and allowed to overheat.

Some tips recommended by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals include:

Always keep pet birds out of the kitchen before cooking.

Never leave heated cookware unattended.

Never preheat your cookware on high heat.

Always keep your kitchen well ventilated.

Many bird enthusiasts are familiar with the hazards that overheated non-stick cookware can pose, but many don't realize that other cookware preheated with oil, fats, margarine or butter could also emit dangerous fumes if allowed to overheat.

For more information from the ASPCA, or to download their brochure titled Breathing Easy: Safeguarding Your Pet Bird From Dangers In The Kitchen, Click Here.