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Intro:
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| If you buy a used cage, ask the owner if the previous occupant had or died of any contagious disease. It could spread to your bird even if the cage is thoroughly washed. (But even if this isn't the case, wash the cage with disinfectant, like a mild bleach solution.) You can also buy unassembled cages, called "knock down" cages, which you bolt together. Be careful though--if your bird is mechanically inclined, it may be able to loosen the screws, damage the cage, or even escape. You can make your own perches by fitting cut, hardwood tree branches between the bars. Before putting them in, "cure" the wood by drying it for a few weeks. You can leave the bark on--birds like to pull it off. You can also use plastic plumbing pipe (PVC) as long as it's small enough for the bird to grip. Roughen it with sandpaper for a better gripping surface. |
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It's critical to give birds the right home (and home furnishings) to satisfy their sensitive needs. Steps 2 and 3 will deal with these items, starting with the cage. The larger the cage, the more room the bird will have to exercise, and the happier it will be, so buy the biggest you can afford (space and money-wise). At the bare minimum, the cage should be large enough for the bird to perch with its tail and outspread wings not touching the sides. The material the cage is made of is also important, since birds tend to gnaw on cage bars. Buy sturdy, metal cages (or Plexiglas) without any sharp edges. Be sure the metals don't contain toxins--avoid brass, chrome, galvanized metals and solder, plus lead-based or anti-rust paints. Also make sure the cage bars are spaced so the bird can't squeeze through or get caught in them. Avoid cages with fancy metalwork, like wrought iron shapes, since the bird can injure itself on them. Inside the cage, a bird needs at least two perches, so it can hop and climb to different areas. These should have rough surfaces and vary in diameter to allow for a good grip. If they don't vary, the bird's feet can get fatigued and develop sores and arthritis. Most cages come with two perches, but you can add more if you want. Make sure that any door to the cage has a secure lock. Birds are very wily in their escape plans.
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Choose the cage
