How To Choose And Set Up The Right Parrot Cage
Copyright (c) 2010 Kaye Dennan
Selecting the right sized cage for a pet parrot takes some consideration because it should be too big and it should be too small. Parrots are active birds and a small cage could have quite a detrimental effect on the parrot. In saying that, too large a cage can also cause the parrot to feel insecure and distressed.
Keeping a parrot in captivity does not mean it should not have room to move around. Parrots are an active bird and long periods in a small cage will cause it emotional distress.
So, what are the things to consider when looking for a suitable cage?
1. The size of the bird: the cage should not be too small as to hinder movement, but by the same token too big a cage can frighten the bird as they like to feel cosy and secure in their cage. A parrot being introduced to the house may even be better in a smaller cage for the first few weeks.
2. Perches: if there is room, several perches are ideal as the parrot will like to move around but they need to be placed high enough so that he can walk around the bottom of the cage. Parrots like to climb and they like to chew so tree branches of the soft wood variety and of the right thickness make great. Any perch in the cage should be a size appropriate to the size of the bird who should be able to get a good grip on it, but not so small that his grip is loose.
3. Mirror – parrots love to smooch into a mirror. To keep him occupied, hang the mirror from the top of the cage so that it swings, rather than on the side of the cage
4. Lining the cage: a popular choice for lining the cage has been shredded newspaper, but the newsprint is harmful to the parrot so other options of sawdust, straw or sand are great. Sand is good because the parrots sometimes eat it and acquire minerals, but they also use it to shape their beaks.
5. Food and water: 2 food trays are a good idea, one for grain and the other for wet food and it is best if they are only put in the cage for a short time and removed later on. A water bottle is better than using a water dish because the water in dishes gets dirty and contaminated. For nibbles through the day the parrot enjoys things like carrot sticks, corn, capsicum and other finger food which can be tied to the cage.
6. Cages with deep removable trays: a deep tray with a grate is ideal as it helps keep the mess inside the cage. Parrots love to forage on the bottom of the cage, especially in the late afternoon and with a grate the droppings go through so the bird is not walking on them or foraging in them.
7. Toys: keep the parrot entertained with a range of toys being rotated in his cage. Parrots love to play and also enjoy doing their own tricks so toys will encourage them to be active. Make sure any toy you put in the cage will not pull apart, break off or catch either their beak or feet in any part of it.
I am positive that when you have considered all these tips for choosing and setting up a parrot cage you will have a lovely home for your pet parrot. Parrots are wonderful pets and a well behaved parrot is a really enjoyable companion. Having the right ‘home’ for your bird will go a long way to keeping him happy and you, the owner, as well.
About the Author
Owning a pet parrot is lots of fun and at
Pet Parrot Secrets
you will find all types of information on just how to have a happy, healthy parrot and lots of tips on having fun with him too. Why don’t you sign up to my FREE ’10 Secrets to Caring for a Pet Parrot’ mini-course.
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