How to Pick a Cat Friendly Bird

If you already live with a cat but want to add a bird to your household, you might be met with some skepticism. Birds and cats have always been notorious enemies, but it doesn't have to be that way because a number of birds can co-exist with cats. If you're certain that your cat is bird friendly, you have half the battle won.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Adopt a caninde, or blue-throated, macaw or a greenwinged macaw. These birds are 24 inches long, so they probably won't look like prey to your cat. They're smart and social, and may even develop a friendship with your cat. If your cat is nervous, though, this isn't the bird for you. The loud call of a macaw can terrify a nervous cat.

2. Investigate the little known red-bellied macaw. This species is smaller and just as bright as the larger macaws. They love to imitate other animals and people. They can even call your cat, just to tease him, or meow right back at the cat.

3. Welcome a hyacinth macaw or red-fronted macaw into your home. These are both loving and social animals. As long as both the cat and the bird receive special attention, these animals cope easily with a cat.

4. Warm up to a parakeet, also known as a budgie. These birds like noise and activity and are extremely social. You need to work with them on trust issues, just like any bird. Make certain that you tap the beak as it is a method of saying hello. They'll stay close to you and away from the cat.

5. Stay away from most parrots. Parrots tend to be fearful animals and the presence of a cat is just another additional fear for them. If you insist on buying a parrot, make certain you find one that has been around cats and people since birth and is comfortable with them.

Tips & Warnings

• Not all breeds of macaws are cat friendly, or people friendly for that matter. Make certain that you don't stray out of the breed. A severe macaw is a difficult bird to raise and definitely is not normally social.
• Beware of timid and phobic birds. You can tell them at first glance when you are buying the bird. They shy away from you or shake in fear. You don't need to add to their phobia by bringing them to a home that has cats.
• African Grey Parrots and cockatoos are birds that normally shouldn't be with cats. They don't react well to stressful situations.