Are scented products safe for my canary? Do they live longer than 5?

Hi and thank you for your question, From your question it is clear that you are aware of the risks of exposing birds to various fumes and aerosols. There is no way of giving you an accurate answer without doing all sorts of tests and measurements. However, the rule of the thumb is - if YOU can smell it - it is bad for the bird. Sometimes even if you can't.. Try finding a different place for Ringo while using these substances (outdoors, stairway, balcony etc.)

That is pretty young for a canary and if they are not in a well-ventilated area, it certainly could be a potential causes. Cooking fumes, especially from products such as Teflon pans, can be toxic to birds, so moving the birds to an area that is better ventilated and away from the cooking area/vents is a good idea. Keeping the environment around your birds clean and dust-free can also help them stay healthier.

I would definitely make sure the area you are painting in stays well ventilated and that you have some place that you can keep Ringo (living room or a room that won't be painted) while you do so. Keeping fans open, opening windows (depending on the weather conditions) in painted rooms for 24-48 hours, etc can help keep the area ventilated as well. Low VOC paints can also be less irritating on the respiratory tract. If you notice any signs that Ringo may be affected such as listless behavior, trouble breathing, etc, moving him to a well-ventilated area and/or seeking veterinary help is best.

As Drano and other cleaning products can have chemicals and odors released that may bother your canary's respiratory system, it is best to move Ringo to another room or area of the house if possible. Ventilate the area you are using the Drano in very well, and move Ringo back after a few hours of use. If you notice Ringo having trouble breathing, acting listless, not wanting to eat, etc, he may be having irritation from the chemicals and should be moved to a well-ventilated room until he can be seen by a vet for care.

I've never heard of a canary stopping singing just because it reaches a certain age. As long as your bird is healthy and in good condition, he should continue singing. It may be that older birds that are ill or not as sexually active don't sing as often, but I don't think there is a set age where a bird will just stop singing.

This may be "normal" for Ringo. Molt times are only estimations based on 'most' birds. Stress, illness or diet can play large roles in molting. You can have him examined by your veterinarian to diagnose any illness or to confirm good health. Confirm proper environmental parameters and diet. There is no way of determining when he will begin singing again.

Birds, just like other pets, may develop preferences towards humans. Acclimate him gradually by sitting next to his cage for ever increasing periods of time. He may flutter about and move to the far side of the cage initially but will eventually calm down. Once he does, place your hand in the cage for ever increasing periods of time. Make no attempt to touch or hold him. He'll flutter about and complain again initially. Speak softly and move slowly. Use praise and small treats after each episode. You may get to the point where Ringo will perch on a finger or sing to you, but if not, do not despair. Be patient and continue working with him. Canaries aren't "cuddly" like cockatoos or other larger birds. (I have 2 African Greys that are almost 30. I have raised both. One loves me, the other has murder in her eyes whenever I approach to clean the cage or feed her. It is what it is).