How to Choose a Bird Cage

Many bird lovers believe that birds need some degree of freedom and as a result allow their beloved pet birds to fly and explore their surroundings. No matter how much time your bird spends free, however, he's still going to need a cage to sleep in at night and stay in while you're not home.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

How to Choose a Bird Cage

1. Your first consideration, when looking at bird cages, is where you're actually going to keep the bird cage in your home. Your bird's cage should be kept away from heaters, air conditioners, and anywhere else they might get a draft, such as a window. Knowing where you're going to place the bird cage will help you find a cage that best meets your needs.

2. Once you know where you're going to keep your bird cage, you can determine what size bird cage to purchase. Ideally, you'll purchase the biggest bird cage for your bird as you can. While you can technically keep a smaller bird, like a parakeet or a canary, in a small cage, you don't want the cage to be too small, especially if your bird is going to be spending a lot of time in it. Bigger is better when it comes to buying a cage, whether you have a finch or a parrot.

3. In addition to the size of the bird cage, you're going to have to consider the spacing between the bars of the bird cage. If you have a parakeet, for example, you obviously don't want to purchase a parrot cage because the spacing between the bars could be just wide enough for your budgie to squeeze through. The best rule of thumb to follow is: If your bird can fit her head through the bars, they're too far apart. Birds are curious creatures and will often try to find new ways to escape from their cage.

4. You also want to consider the shape of the bird cage. Opt for a wide bird cage over a tall bird cage, so your bird can stretch his wings and flap them, if he feels the urge.

5. Choose a bird cage that has sturdy latch to lock the door to ensure your bird can't open the door and fly whenever she wants.

6. It's also important to consider how the cage is made. You should purchase a bird cage that is made with non-toxic materials, such as stainless steel. Avoid those cages that are painted because the paint can chip and your bird can ingest it. You're going to spend more for a higher quality cage, but it's also going to last longer and be safer for your bird.

7. Opt for a bird cage that is easy to clean. Generally, bird cages feature a bottom that you simply have to slide out to remove and to clean.

8. Buy the appropriate-sized toys and accessories (perches and mirrors, for example) for your bird's cage. If you have a parakeet, for example, don't buy him toys or accessories designed for a parrot.