Parakeets are small birds that need a small cage.
Most pet stores sell standard bird cages designed for other species.
These aren’t suitable for parakeets and should be avoided at all costs.
When buying a new home for your bird, make sure the cage is: A minimum of 8 inches in length and width (20 cm), but preferably 10 inches (25 cm) long and 18 inches (45 cm) wide.
A minimum of 2 square feet per bird, but preferably 3 square feet per bird (24cm x 24cm).
That means if you have two parakeets, their cage needs to be no less than 6.5 square feet in total space.
A wire or mesh floor is required to prevent any injuries from chewed wood and nails.
The cage should not have any sharp edges or protruding screws or bolts either – this can lead to injury as well as stress and feather chewing in some cases.
The base of the cage must be solid as much as possible with no gaps between the various levels inside – this also prevents parakeet escape attempts that often result in death if they are caught outside by predators.
What shape cage is best for parakeets?
The best shapes for parakeets are hexagons, circles, and squares.
These will allow your birds to have a greater amount of freedom of movement while still offering plenty of space.
What is the best thing to put in the bottom of a parakeet cage?
Wood shavings are the best type of bedding.
They are absorbent and they should be changed regularly. The bottom of the cage is also a good spot for plenty of fresh water, food, and treats.
Take care to ensure that your bird has easy access to these items too, so as not to create any fear or stress in your pet bird.
A perch is also important to provide physical and mental stimulation for your pet parakeet. Parakeets need something to climb on, chew on and hang out with their friends on.
Should you cover the parakeet cage at night?
No, you should not cover your parakeet cage at night. This can create a feeling of isolation for your bird and cause them to feel stressed. It is also important that your parakeet has access to fresh air and natural light.
How often should I clean my parakeet’s cage?
You should clean your parakeet’s cage at least once a week, and more often if necessary.
Cleaning frequency will depend on how many birds you have, what type of cage it is, and how messy your birds are.
A good rule of thumb is to clean the cage when it starts to look dirty.
Make sure to remove all food and water dishes before cleaning, and put fresh food and water back in after the cage is clean.
Wash all dishes with hot soapy water, and rinse well.
Disinfect the cage with a mild bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water), and rinse thoroughly before putting your bird back in.
Let the cage air dry before putting your bird back in.
Should I get a bird perch?
A bird perch is a good idea for your parakeet. It provides physical and mental stimulation and gives your birds something to climb on, chew on, and hang out with their friends on.
Make sure the perch is made of safe materials that won’t splinter or break easily, and that it is the right size for your parakeet.
You can find bird perches at most pet stores.
What are some good toys for parakeets?
Some good toys for parakeets include:
-Bells: Bells provide mental stimulation and help keep your bird’s beak trim. Make sure the bell is made of safe materials that won’t rust or break easily.
-Ladders: Ladders provide physical exercise and help keep your bird’s claws trimmed. Make sure the ladder is made of safe materials that won’t splinter or break easily.
-Chewing Toys: Chewing toys help keep your bird’s beak trim and provide mental stimulation. Make sure the chewing toy is made of safe materials that won’t splinter or break easily.
-Swing: Swings provide physical exercise and help keep your bird’s claws trimmed. Make sure the swing is made of safe materials that won’t splinter or break easily.
You can find these and other parakeet toys at most pet stores.
What should I do if my parakeet gets out of the cage?
If your parakeet gets out of the cage, try to remain calm.
Quickly and safely capture your bird, and put it back in the cage.
If you are unable to capture your bird, call a professional wildlife removal service.
Do not try to catch your bird yourself if you are not experienced in doing so, as this could result in injury to both you and your bird.
Conclusion
Parakeets are interesting and fun pets to have. They are relatively easy to care for, but there are a few things you need to know to keep them healthy and happy. Proper diet, housing, and enrichment are essential for keeping your parakeet healthy and happy.
