How To

How to Set Up a Cage for a Lovebird

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(3 Ratings)

A happy, well-cared-for lovebird is one that has a roomy, clean cage, places to exercise and rest, and toys to play with. Without these simple things, your bird might become bored and develop behavioral problems such as feather-plucking or screaming.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Square or rectangular cage
  • Perches in a variety of materials, heights and diameters
  • Toys
  • Food and water bowls
  1. Step 1

    Purchase a square or rectangular cage that is at least 2 feet wide by 2 feet long and at least 2 feet high. Bars should be horizontal and no more than ½ inch to 5/8 inch apart so the bird's head won't get stuck. If you opt for a smaller cage, you must let your lovebird out every day to fly around. The cage should be made out of materials that are durable and easy to clean.

  2. Step 2

    Provide a variety of perches of different heights and diameters. Try to include perches made of cement or sand, wood branches, rope or wooden dowels. Lovebirds love to move around, and using a variety of textures and diameters allows them to exercise their feet and muscles.

  3. Step 3

    Care for your lovebird by giving it plenty of toys. Preening toys made of rope or string can prevent feather-plucking; puzzle toys and knots can promote problem-solving skills; and snuggle tubes are helpful when your bird needs some quiet time or a nap.

  4. Step 4

    Set up a spot for food and water bowls. Take care to provide clean and fresh water; bowls should be cleaned daily. Lovebirds tend to put their food pellets in their water or take baths in the bowls, so frequent water changes might be necessary.

  5. Step 5

    Clean and disinfect the cage weekly once it is set up. When perches and toys become dirty, wash and dry them.

Tips & Warnings
  • Avoid round cages, since they do not provide much space for lovebirds to climb or exercise.
  • Do not substitute a sandpaper-covered perch for a cement perch. Sandpaper is too gritty for birds' feet and can damage them.
  • Lovebirds use cement perches to keep their beaks and nails trimmed. Do not make the cement perch the highest perch in the cage; reserve the highest perch for wood or rope, so your bird can rest its feet and be comfortable when it sleeps.

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