Since your cockatiel will be spending much of its time in its cage, it's important that you select a cage that will make your pet feel comfortable and secure.
Select a large cage so the bird will have plenty of room to move about inside. It should be able to spread its wings easily without hitting the sides.
Step2
Look for a square cage that allows the bird to nest in the corners and feel safe.
Step3
Avoid round cages where the bars bend to meet in the center - the bird's toes or beak can get caught in this spot.
Step4
Opt for a cage with plastic, coated bars if you want something that will look nice and be easy to clean.
Step5
Understand that block cages made of welded wire are a less expensive choice, but if you go this route, use vinegar and water to clean the cage and remove any excess zinc, which could poison the bird.
Step6
Be sure that the cage bars are not more that 3/4 of an inch apart, so your bird won't be able to stick its head through the openings.
Step7
Check the cage door to be sure that it is large enough that you can stick your hand in, with your bird perched on your hand, without the bird having to duck down.
Step8
Equip the cage with perches and toys to keep the cockatiel occupied. Make sure the cage is at least 16 inches high to accommodate two levels of perches.
Step9
Select a cage that is wider than high since the bird will spend much of its time on the ground floor.
Step10
Look for a grate on the floor, to keep the bird from sitting in its droppings.
Tips & Warnings
Keep the cage in a busy room where people travel through regularly, since cockatiels are used to being in the midst of a flock.
Be sure the cage is kept away from direct sunlight and drafts.
on 2/21/2006
These birds should only be in a cage when they cannot be watched. They can be trained to stay on the cage. It is also good for them to go with you to the shower because they need to get wet every day. They need to be able to fly back to their cage.
on 11/22/2005
Select perches of different diameters and shapes. For example, a manzanita branch, a cement perch, a wooden dowel perch and a rope perch. This will exercise your bird's feet as they will not always be grasped in the same position.
Comments
doglover754 said
on 2/27/2007 Cockatiels love to be out of their cage. They love to fly around in your house.
Anonymous said
on 2/21/2006 These birds should only be in a cage when they cannot be watched. They can be trained to stay on the cage. It is also good for them to go with you to the shower because they need to get wet every day. They need to be able to fly back to their cage.
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 Select perches of different diameters and shapes. For example, a manzanita branch, a cement perch, a wooden dowel perch and a rope perch. This will exercise your bird's feet as they will not always be grasped in the same position.