Parrot Care - Buying a Parrot Cage

Before You Buy a Parrot Cage

Every species of bird has its own requirements of comfort and safety when it comes to choosing a cage. You must consider the proper size and type for the parrot cage before going out to buy one, as that will have a deep impact on your bird’s life, regardless of what kind of bird it is.

Size

The main idea with parrot cages is that you must buy the largest you can find on the market, so that your bird will be able to feel “at home” in it. Keep in mind that the recommendations for a minimum parrot cage size are the lowest sizes for your bird to survive, so do not use them as guidelines. Also, you must keep in mind the fact that, for example, a parrot cage with wide bar spacing is not suit for a canary or for finches and doves, which blossom in aviary or flight cages (that is if you can accommodate such a cage in your home). So you should adjust the cage’s design and space barring to your own pet bird.

Cage Shape

If you own a small bird, think about the fact that most of their flying is done more side to side than up and done, so that the length of a parrot cage is more important, rather than the height of it. In case you have a large parrot, consider its activities: climbing, stretching and playing. You’ll come to the conclusion that taller parrot cages are more adequate, but they should also be fairly wide for the parrot to have enough room. Never buy cylindrical cages, as some birds seem to have insecurity issues in this kind of cages.

Bar Spacing and Orientation

Parrots need cages with horizontal bars, as you all now that they love to climb on the sides of the cage. Orientation is not so important if you own any other kind of bird that does not use to climb, for example finches, doves or canaries. Still you have to be careful, because inappropriate parrot cages can hurt a bird, by getting its beak, feet or even its head caught in the bars of the cage.

To sum up, keep in mind the fact that when buying a bird cage you should also consider the spacing of the cage bars or wire, as it is essential for your bird’s safety.

Quality

A parrot cage can be seen as a nice piece of your furniture, so you might consider a larger one, of the best quality on the market. You know what they say: expensive things are always better than cheap ones. And this is also true when it comes to parrot cages. Furthermore, cheaper wire or wire and plastic cages can be a real danger to the safety of your beloved bird. Think of the fact that a well-made cage of high quality will be very valuable throughout the life of the bird. My advice is to buy a stainless steel or powder coated wrought iron cage, as it’s not toxic for the parrot.

Safety

Another safety issue comes from other features of a cage, getting the bird to injure its head, wings , feet or beak. Stay away from any parrot cage that has doors or latches that can trap a bird! Some of the products on the market have fancy scroll work and complicated designs. Stay away from them also! Beware of zinc in any feature of the cage. Older or painted cages also contain lead and zinc. Sharp edges are another dangerous thing you must be cautious about.

Easy to Maintain

The ideal parrot cage is the one that is easily cleaned and cared for. Stainless steel and wrought iron cages are the ideal candidates for this. A pull out tray should make cleaning the bottom of the cage a piece of cake. The doors of the cage must give you the possibility to easily clean the cage, as well as access for a bird. Dishes used for food and water must also be removed through these doors. Perches and Accessories

Perches are very important in a parrot’s cage. A perch should be placed near every food dish, at different heights of the cage. They should be suited to the bird’s size, and if possible, wooden dowel style perches are the best. Get perches of varying diameters as this prevents foot problems for birds. Also add natural branch style perches to make the cage more pleasant for the parrot. Water dishes can be stainless steel, porcelain or plastic, but the first two last for longer use. Secure Door

Bird-proof latch at the door is a must in any kind of cage, so that the bird cannot escape. Parrots and especially larger ones are quite clever birds, so never underrate them!