BIRD / new pets
Overview
- How to Choose The Right Birdcage
- Where to Put The Cage
- Furnishing the Birdcage
- Basic Care for Your Bird
Having a bird as a pet brings so much joy and happiness into your home. Of course, you want to give your bird just as much happiness as they give you, so give them a habitat that perfectly suits their individual needs. Did you know that one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to birdcages? There are many things to consider when you’re ready to begin your birdcage setup. You should fill your bird’s cage with accessories such as perches, bedding, toys, bowls and bird baths to make their home both functional and comfortable for them. Use these simple guidelines to choose a birdcage that gives your pet adequate living space so they can live a happy, healthy life.
How to Choose The Right Birdcage
Choosing the best cage for your pet bird can be tricky, but giving your bird the proper cage to live in is extremely important. When you’re deciding between the many sizes and types, keep in mind
- The kind of home that best suits your bird's species
- Your bird’s size
- How many birds will be living together
- The location of the cage
Cage Size and Shape
Surprisingly, the width of the cage is more of a concern than the height. Choose a cage that is a minimum of twice as wide as your bird’s wingspan. A cage for multiple birds should be even more spacious.
Cage Material and Bar Spacing
Your bird’s cage is what keeps them safe, so choosing one that is the right material and has bars that will protect them is imperative. You also want to find a cage that works for you when it comes to keeping it clean. Keep these material and bar spacing tips in mind when choosing a cage for your bird
- A stainless-steel birdcage is affordable and durable.
- Make sure the bars are close enough together so the bird can’t squeeze through.
- Take a close look at the bottom grate; some are easier to clean than others.
Where to Put The Cage
Birds are social creatures and love to be part of the family, so their cage should be near the center of the action. Some birds may also like to have a second, smaller cage somewhere quiet and private to help them sleep.
Avoid putting birdcages in the kitchen or anywhere where smoke may gather; birds have very sensitive lungs and can be affected by smoke and strong odors.
Because some birds don’t do well in heat or cold, keep birdcages away from drafts and direct sunlight.
Furnishing the Birdcage
Now that you’ve chosen the right cage, it’s time to decorate! Furnishing their cage with engaging decorations and toys will keep them entertained and make them love their new home even more.
Bowls and Dishes
Your bird will need a food bowl and two water bowls; one for drinking and one for bathing. You can also put a birdbath directly inside your bird’s living space. Some bowls lock into place, which helps keep them from spilling.
Perch Spots
Birds love perches! Give them a few to choose from, at different heights and in different materials. Natural wood perches double as chewing posts, so they’ll need to be replaced regularly. Braided rope makes for a flexible perch, and concrete can be a good choice for a lower perch.
To figure out the right width for a perch, check your bird’s feet: while they are perching, there should be a ¾-inch gap between the bird’s front and rear nails.
Bedding/Liners
Line the enclosure floor with recycled-paper bedding or use a paper liner. Replace the liner at least every other day.
Cage toys
Birds love stimulating cage décor and toys. Some great choices include:
- Rope knots, twisty toys
- Puzzles with treats inside
- Swings and ladders
- Fall-apart toys designed to be pecked to pieces
- Beak-strengthening chew toys
When choosing cage décor, safety comes first—don’t give birds anything that might be accidentally swallowed, or anything that might entangle them.
Basic Care for Your Bird
Each individual type of bird comes with its own set of unique needs and preferences, so learning how to properly care for your pet bird before bringing them home will help you provide the best environment for them. Check out PetSmart’s care highlights to find out more about caring for your pet:
- Parakeet Care Guide
- Conure Care Guide
- Dove Care Guide
- co*ckatiel Care Guide
- Lovebird Care Guide
- Parrotlet Care Guide
No matter which type of bird you decide to bring into your home, you can now make a better-informed decision on the best birdcage setup for your specific pet.
Information in this article is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure your pet and is not a substitute for veterinary care provided by a licensed veterinarian. For any medical or health-related advice concerning the care and treatment of your pet, contact your veterinarian.
