Bird Cages vs. the Parrot Cage

If you are like many people, you probably have not given a lot of thought to whether bird cages or a parrot cage are that much different. Choosing the right cage for your feathered friends definitely is a choice you will want to give some thought. The many different sizes and materials from which they are made is just one aspect of choosing the right one for your bird or birds. When choosing a parrot cage or bird cages, here are the considerations you will want to be sure you take into account.

The Sizes

First off you are going to need to think about the size, and what sort of bird you are going to purchase. If you want parakeets, then you can get by with a small cage, but that really depends on how many parakeets you are actually planning to keep. If you just have a single parakeet then you won't need a huge cage, but it still needs to be comfortable. Remember, this is the bird's home, and it needs to be quite comfortable in it's home.

Other types of small birds, such as finches, canaries, budgies, and lovebirds won't require a big cage, but they need to not feel as if they are cramped. The decision hinges on the number of birds that you wish to put in a cage, and if you're buying a baby parrot, make sure that the cage is big enough for when it grows and is much larger.

Your bird will be happier if the cage is the proper size for it's species and the amount of birds that you are keeping in it. It needs to be the proper size no matter what, and birds love interacting with people. Make sure that the cage is in a room in which people visit all the time, that way they get all the interaction they need. This is also a huge consideration when purchasing a cage. If you are in a small home you don't want you cage to be too large.

The Materials

Material is something that you need to look into when you are purchasing a cage, because they need to be steel or wrought iron. The reason for this is that if you have a weak material the bird will be able to chew right through it. If you have a parrot, then it is important to know that they are a lot stronger and a lot more intelligent, they may be able to just open the cage door depending on the complexity of the lock.

The best material is either a steel cage or a wrought iron cage. Avoiding wooden cages no matter how cute they may be is a good idea because they are more easily breached by the bird. Making sure the bird cages are made of materials that have not been painted is another aspect of purchasing a safe bird cage. Some paints can be poisonous to your bird.

You also need to make sure that the bird cages you purchase don't have bars that are too wide. Make sure that the bars are no more than half an inch apart, because if there is more space your bird will probably be able to waltz right out. Make sure the material isn't easily broken so that your bird won't just break the bars and wander out of the cage.

The Shape

There are many different types of bird cage, and they come in all different sizes. They could be square, they could be round, and they might even have a dome. You will find that a dome is good for the majority of birds because they enjoy being able to go up top and see what is going on in the household. Keep this in mind when you go shopping for a bird cage.

Small cages are generally going to be round or square and this does not matter a whole lot if the bird you are going to choose is a small bird. The main thing you want to ensure when purchasing bird cages is they are the proper fit for the bird. These are available in hanging types or with their own stand.

There are some cages that have play areas up top for the birds when they're out of the cage, and some cages actually have two stories. These are great for parakeets, cockatiels, and medium sized birds. Think about this if you have a lot of birds and require several cages.

Accessories

All bird cages should have easy access to the inside for cleaning and refilling food and water containers. They should also have a tray that removes easily for cleaning. There are many cages that the roof can be detached and this is very handy for cleaning. They should have perches for the birds to sit on and relax. These are easier on the bird's feet if they are made of wood.

Climbable and toys are almost a requirement for a bird's happiness. You will find that the majority of birds are very active and need to be able to entertain themselves. Swings are also a great addition for a bird cage, and some birds like to perch on the swings and squawk rather loudly.

Most importantly, make sure that your bird is happy in his or her cage. The cage is their home and you need to keep it clean at all times. I you do this then the bird will be very happy. Pick out a bird cage as if you were picking out a home for yourself.