How to Buy Toys for a Parrot

Polly wants more than a cracker. Parrots are smart and inquisitive birds, and toys ease loneliness and keep your pet from getting bored. Toys can even extend your parrot's life by alleviating nervous conditions. There are numerous types of parrots and numerous toys for them to play with, so follow these steps to give your parrot a treat.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Take the size of the parrot into account. A smaller bird like a parakeet or cockatiel requires a smaller sized toy. Toy labels often indicate the size of bird they're designed for.
2. Buy a toy that matches your bird's type and temperament. Choose some chew toys if your bird has the habit of plucking out his feathers. Parakeets like mirrors. Some birds like to gnaw on wood or lava rocks which helps strengthen and groom their beaks.
3. Choose the material carefully. If choosing wood, make sure it is parrot safe. An Amazon parrot probably wants a wooden toy because it is sturdy. Plastic toys would be fine for smaller birds.
4. Pick a pleasing color. Parrots like bright colors, especially yellow, orange and red.
5. Collect an assortment of toys to have on hand. Obtain some puzzle toys and some foot toys. Get some chew toys, bells and hanging treats.

Tips & Warnings

• Rotate educational toys about once a month so your parrot doesn't get bored.
• Supervise your parrot as he plays for the first time with his new toy.
• Make sure the parrot is not eating the parts.
• Cut all frayed parts to avoid getting necks and nails caught.
• Throw away broken toys and wash soiled ones.
• Avoid chains with closed links. The parrot might get its beak stuck in the closure.