Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Already a member? Sign in
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

How to gradually shift my canary's sleep schedule to natural light?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Male | unneutered

I wish to change the amount of Hours my Canary Sleeps and is awake. The Breeder I bought him from, said 12 hours awake and 12 hours sleeping. I want to put him on 'Cover cage at Sundown and uncover cage at Sunrise'. He has been on the 12 and 12 for 8 months. How do I change his sleeping and awake patterns? Gradually? If so, how do I do it gradually, re: hours awake and asleep?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Rebecca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 27th, 2017

I would just make the change gradually. And depending on what times you've been keeping him at light and dark adjust by a half hour add a time until you get where you would like to be. Monitor Ringos eating drinking and activity to make sure he doesn't appear stressed and take your cues from him as to how quickly to keep changing. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on September 12th, 2017

    You can cover him when you turn in and uncover him when you wake. A 12 on/ 12 off schedule is a guideline, not a hard and fast rule. Don't stress yourself out over a few hours difference. Ringo will adjust to your schedule and be fine.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Is it normal for a pregnant guinea pig to zoom after cage cleaning?
Is your pregnant guinea pig running in circles after a cage cleaning? A trusted vet explains if this is normal and what to watch for during her 59-72 day gestation.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has worsening sores and scratches. Could it be an infection?
Nike's worsening sores and constant scratching worry his owner. A certified Petco veterinarian offers expert guidance on potential causes like bacterial infections and next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
How to keep a pet mom and her newborn babies warm and calm?
Support your pet mom and newborn babies! A certified vet offers advice on ideal room temperature, minimizing stress, and quiet intervention for food & water.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What can I use to cover my hermit crab tank for low humidity?
Struggling with low hermit crab cage humidity without a lid? A Licensed Vet Tech shares DIY solutions like plastic wrap, moss, and sponges to keep your crab healthy.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My parrot won't stop bouncing and screaming. What's wrong with her?
Is your parrot Susie excessively jumping and screaming with callouses? A trusted veterinarian advises seeking professional help for these sudden behavior changes. Get expert guidance now!
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored