Have you decided to adopt a pet bird? Polly has earned herself some ‘raven’ fans, and with good reason. Birds are colorful, cute, charming, and lots of fun. One thing that is very important is making sure that your feathered pal is comfortable in her cage. A local Lexington, KY vet offers some tips on this below.
Bigger Is Better
Making sure that your pet has plenty of room in her cage is absolutely crucial. When shopping, keep in mind that Polly will need lots of toys and perches. These things take up a lot of room, and could make what seems like a good-sized cage quickly feel cramped. Get the biggest cage you have space for.
Be Prepared To Splurge
A birdcage is really a one-time expense, so it makes sense to splurge a bit. Extras like sliding trays and removable playtops may make the price go up, but will be well worth it in the end.
Do Some Research
Birdcages are definitely not one size fits all. A budgie won’t need as much room as a Macaw would. It’s also important to realize that different types of birds need different type of cages. For example, finches fly horizontally, so they need cages that are more wide than tall. Parrots are quite the opposite, and love to climb.
Bar Spacing
Bar spacing is also something to keep in mind. Polly could get stuck in bars that are spaced too widely for her. Birds that like to climb, like the parrot we just mentioned, will appreciate bars that are horizontal.
Shape
Some studies have suggested that birds find round cages stressful. Look for one that is more angular.
Pick The Spot First
It may help to decide where the cage is going to go before you go shopping. Measure the area, and take the numbers with you. Then, pick a cage that will fit the space. That way, you won’t have to deal with the frustration of realizing the cage you picked was too big or too small for its spot.
Material/Craftsmanship
Small things like splinters, jagged edges, and peeling paint can all lead to big problems with Polly’s health. Look closely at cage quality and workmanship. Check materials as well. Avoid anything that includes zinc, which is toxic to birds.
As your Lexington, KY animal hospital, we’re dedicated to offering great care. Please contact us anytime!
