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For small birds such as budgies, finches, canaries, cockatiels and lovebirds, the bigger the cage the better. Since they spend a lot of time flying in the wild, a cage must be big enough to provide opportunity for exercise and entertainment.
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What size cage do I need?
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Your bird should be able to fly from perch to perch, and stretch its wings without hitting the sides. A long, rectangular cage is much better than a tall one since birds cannot fly directly up and down. Try to avoid having perches directly below one another as this results in soiling with faeces.
Cages made from metal are the best, as they are easier to clean and disinfect. Bamboo cages may be used for canaries or some finches, but they are unsuitable for budgies and lovebirds as these species often chew wood.
Recommended minimum cage size for budgies, finches and canaries is 30cm x 30cm x 60cm, and for cockatiels and lovebirds – 60cm x 60cm x 90cm.
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What should I use as perches?
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Tree branches make the best perches. Putting the branches in an oven at 150 degrees for ½ hour will kill insects in the wood. Natural branches have differing diameter and texture, giving good exercise for the feet. They also help to wear the nails naturally, so they do not require clipping. Replace the branches every couple of weeks since they cannot be cleaned effectively. Concrete perches are also good for wearing the nails. Birds also tend to maintain their beaks in the natural shape by cleaning them on the perches. Natural hemp or cotton rope make good perches, and need to be replaced regularly to ensure hygiene.
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What should I put in the cage?
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Food and water containers are attached securely to the side of the cage, in a position where they cannot be soiled. Containers need to be cleaned daily, and made of a sturdy, cleanable material such as stainless steel.
Birds need toys for entertainment. There are many wonderful toys available to keep small birds stimulated from plastic balls with metal bells, mirrors, wooden blocks, rope ladders, rubber chew toys to swings and treat hiding toys. Use mirrors with a protective back as the reflective backing of mirrors is toxic. Polished stainless steel can serve as an alternative reflective surface. Clean all toys regularly in disinfectant, rinsing well afterwards.
Some birds like exploring paper bags and boxes, so experiment with a few different toys. If your bird seems apprehensive of a new addition, leave it outside the cage for a while, and gradually introduce it.
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Editor: Dr Julia Adams BVSc
Contributor: Dr Rebecca Bragg BVSc
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