FAQ: Cages for birds

Yes, parrots with strong beaks can bend or break thin bars and escape or injure themselves. The bigger and stronger the bird, the thicker and more firmly welded the bars need to be.

Parrots that like to climb find cages with at least some horizontal bars more comfortable, as they are easier to grip. For canaries and finches it matters less, since they mostly fly.

Use a ruler to measure the distance between the inner edges of two neighbouring bars. If the cage has different parts, such as doors or a top, check them all, as the spacing can differ there.

If the bird can push its head between the bars, the cage is not safe for it and is worth replacing with a suitable one. Some owners cover the bars with bird-safe mesh for a while, but that is not a long-term fix, as the bird may chew it.

Round cages are often considered less suitable, as they have no corners where a bird can feel secure, and less flying space. Bars that narrow to a point at the top can also become dangerous for feet and wings.

For most birds the most practical choice is a rectangular cage that is wider than it is tall. It makes it easier to arrange perches, feeders and toys, and leaves the bird room to fly between them.

Cages with curly bars, turrets or ornaments can look attractive, but they often have narrow angles and gaps where a bird can trap a foot or its head. They are also harder to clean.

Arched or dome-top cages have more space inside at the top, while flat-top cages often have a play area on top and fit more easily under a shelf. What matters most for the bird is enough room inside and safe bar spacing.

An opening top lets the bird climb out onto the roof of the cage, which many parrots enjoy. The top must lock firmly both open and closed, or it may fall on the bird.

Tall, narrow cages take up little floor space, but it is hard for a bird to fly in them, since birds fly horizontally. They suit climbing parrots better, and only if the bird spends a lot of time out of the cage.

Corners and more sheltered spots help a bird feel secure, because it can retreat from open space. So in a rectangular cage it is worth keeping one corner quieter, for example with a perch placed close to the wall.

Some manufacturers give the total height including the stand, so the space inside can be much smaller. Before buying, check the internal cage dimensions without the stand and the base tray.

Cages are usually made of powder-coated steel, stainless steel or chrome-plated metal, with a plastic base. Stainless steel is the most durable and easiest to clean, while painted metal cages are usually lighter.

Good-quality powder-coated metal is usually safe as long as the coating is smooth and not peeling. If the paint starts to flake or the parrot chews it off, the cage should be replaced, as the bird may swallow coating particles.

Stainless steel does not rust, has no coating to peel and stands up well to frequent washing and disinfection. That is why such cages are often chosen for large parrots that chew their bars, although they usually cost more.

Zinc and lead are toxic to birds, and parrots that chew their bars can swallow them. Old cages of unknown origin and galvanised cages or mesh can release these metals, so it is best to avoid them and see a vet if you notice signs of poisoning.

New galvanised mesh can carry zinc residue that is dangerous to birds that chew. Keepers often scrub such mesh with vinegar and rinse it well, but for parrots that chew the mesh, stainless steel mesh is safer.

Wooden cages look cosy, but parrots chew through them quickly, and wood absorbs dirt and is hard to disinfect, so mites and bacteria can thrive in it. They may only suit birds that chew little, and only if made of untreated, safe wood.

A hard plastic base or tray is usually safe and easy to wash. But keep an eye on plastic parts the bird can reach and chew, as gnawed-off bits can be swallowed.

A chrome finish is usually smooth and shiny, but over time or when chewed it can flake, and the metal underneath can rust. Such a cage needs regular checks and should be replaced once the finish is damaged.