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Choosing A Cage For Your Pet Bird

Pet birds need cages. In this article we discuss choosing a cage for your feathered buddy...

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Every pet bird needs a cage in which to live and you want to choose a cage for your pet bird that is just right to it to call home. You want the bird to have sufficient space and room for food and toys to play with. Here's what to look for when choosing the best cage for your species.

The first thing to consider is the size cage for your pet bird. A finch or canary cage can be small while bigger birds require larger cages. The bird should have plenty of space to fully spread its wings without touching any side of the cage, have room to climb up and down and room for playing. Bigger is better when choosing a cage for your bird. Cages that are too small can cause screaming, biting, feather plucking and nervous birds.

A cage for your pet bird should have the bars spaced so that they can not get trapped between bars. For small birds like budgies, lovebirds and even cockatiels, bar spacing of one-half inch is best. Larger birds can have up to one inch spacing, depending upon how large the bird's body is. Ask your vet or pet shop what is recommended for your species.

The shape and style of cage for your pet bird should fit both the bird's needs and yours. Round bird cages are poor choices except for finches and canaries. All other birds prefer square or rectangular cages. Decide if you want to place the cage on a cage stand or if you want a cage that can be hung. Big cages, of course, aren't for hanging and usually have a stand or the largest sit directly on the floor and extend most of the way to the ceiling.

Choose a cage for your pet bird that is constructed of sturdy material. Thin bars on a cage for a large bird will result in broken bars as the bird chews on them. Choose a powder coated finish to best prevent rust.

For more information about pet birds, bird training and bird aviaries, see the "resources" section of this website, or go to articles about pet birds.