Bird Cage Buying Guide

Bird Cage Buying Guide

When selecting a cage for your bird, there are many factors that should be considered in order to insure a comfortable and safe environment for your pet. Here are a few tips to make the decision easier for you:

1. You get what you pay for 
   It is in your best interest to purchase a cage from a trusted source and a trusted brand name. Many stores and Internet retailers sell no-name cages at very low prices; unfortunately these no-name cages are often more of a hassle than a bargain. Missing and damaged parts seem to be a common occurrence with bargain priced cages. Also, most no-name cages do not use non-toxic finishes, which can be dangerous and deadly to your bird. If the cage is not from a trusted brand name, it will not come with any type of customer support if you should encounter any problems with your purchase.
   
   
2. Proper design for intended species
   Vertical Bars – For Finches, Canaries and all non-climbing species
   Horizontal bars – for Parakeets, Parrots, Cockatiels and all climber species
   
   Most cage companies now manufacture cages that have horizontal bars on the sides of the cage with vertical bars on the front and back of the cage.
   
   
3. Wire Spacing
   3/8" suitable for Finches and extremely small birds
   1/2" general purpose for Parakeets, Canaries and all medium-sized birds
   5/8” suitable for Cockatiels and small parrots
   3/4" suitable for Cockatiels, Doves, African Greys, Amazons, Eclectus, etc.
   1" suitable for all medium to large birds such as Greys, Amazons, Macaws
   1" + suitable for large Macaws, Cockatoos and other large birds
   
   
4. Inside cage dimensions
   Should allow your bird to comfortably spread its wings
   Should allow your bird to turn 360 degrees without tail 
       feathers touching cage bars
   Should have ample cage base depth for birds who do not sleep on perches
   Should have added cage height for climbing birds
   Should provide ample room for toys and related treats
   
5. Special Features
   Seed guards to help control the mess
   Wood perches with proper access to feeder bowls
   Multiple feeder cups with ample holding capacity
   Access door should be large enough to easily place your bird inside
   Bird-proof safety door latches
   
   
6. Cage Construction
   In most cases, cost does dictate the amount of quality 
       put into cage construction