How to choose the right parrot cage

How to choose the right parrot cage?

One of the basics of dedicated and caring bird ownership is providing your parrot with an adequate living space.

With all the different sizes, colours, and models of bird cages available today, it is very easy to become overwhelmed when shopping for a home for pet parrots and birds. Although it seems there are endless choices when it comes to the types of bird cages available, there are a few simple guidelines you can remember that will make the process of choosing one much easier.

Location and Placement
The first of these guidelines is to decide where your bird’s cage will be located, and then shop based on what will work within the area you have set aside. The area should be away from direct sunlight and drafts, yet be placed in an active part of your home to encourage your pet’s social development. Parrots live in flocks and love to be part of the daily family routine.

Choosing the Right Size
Next, of course, is to keep the size of your bird in mind. While it is perfectly fine to keep a Canary or Finch in a small space, larger birds do require larger cages, and it is always better to buy as large a cage as you possibly can for your bird. Keeping a bird in a cage that is too small can lead to undesirable behaviors such as screaming, biting, psychological disorders, and feather plucking, to name a few. A good cage should be large enough for your bird to walk around comfortably, and fully extend and flap his or her wings. Don’t forget to take into account the space that will be lost when you add your bird’s perches, food bowls, and toys! Feel free to consult us for recommended cage sizes for your particular species of parrot or visit our parrot species page.

Bar Spacing
When selecting a cage, pay particular attention to the spacing of the bars. Smaller birds, such as parakeets and lovebirds, require cages with bars no more than a half inch apart, to prevent them from squeezing through or becoming stuck between the bars. Many bird owners have been surprised to find that their pets are little escape artists! Those who own larger birds should look for bars that are placed horizontally rather than vertically in order to provide your bird a means of climbing and some exercise.

Open Top Parrot Cage Shape and Style
The style of the cage is also an important factor. According to some vets, round cages have been found to be detrimental to the birds’ psychological health. Therefore angled cages are far preferable. The larger parrot cages always come with some type of a stand and in most cases do have wheels for easy manoeuvrability. You can choose from open top, solid top and play top parrot cages for the larger parrots and many different style of cages for the smaller parrot species.

Quality and Craftsmanship

Assess the overall quality of a bird cage before you buy it. Does the cage appear sturdy and solid? Are there any loose parts or sharp edges? The best cages are made of stainless steel, which is non-toxic, easy to clean, and will not chip. The primary function of a bird’s cage is to protect your pet – make sure that your bird’s home does not pose any hazards to his or her health and well-being.

A properly designed bird cage will give your bird – and you – many years of use and enjoyment. You should remember that your bird will spend a great deal of time in his or her cage, and much like us, will appreciate some decorations to look at! Fill your bird’s cage with colourful toys, perches, and accessories to ensure that he or she is well entertained. With a little planning and careful decision making as well as free advice from the team at Parrot Essentials, you should be able to choose a cage that will meet all your expectations while providing your bird with a safe, sturdy, and secure living space.

All cages sold at Parrot Essentials are made of non-toxic materials. We do sell a wide variety of parrot toys as well – all made of non toxic material.

Click here to view a selection of cages and toys that we are currently offering.