A bird’s cage is its home, safe haven, and main territory. Getting the setup right has a direct impact on your bird’s physical health and mental wellbeing.
Size
The golden rule: the cage should be large enough for your bird to fully extend both wings without touching the sides. For budgies, minimum 45x45x75cm. For cockatiels, 60x60x90cm minimum. For parrots, bigger is always better.
Bar Spacing
Critical for safety. Budgies and small birds: 1-1.5cm. Cockatiels: 1.5-2cm. Larger parrots: 2.5-3cm. Wrong spacing means heads can get stuck or the bird can escape.
Perches
Use at least 3 different textures and diameters — this exercises the feet and prevents arthritis. Natural wood branches (apple, willow, eucalyptus) are ideal. Avoid sandpaper perches, which cause sores.
Placement
Put the cage in a social area where your bird can see and interact with the family — birds are flock animals and isolation causes depression. However, keep away from the kitchen (cooking fumes including non-stick coatings can be fatal), drafts, and direct intense sunlight. One side against a wall gives the bird a sense of security.
Food and Water Position
Never place food or water directly under perches — contamination from droppings is a major cause of illness. Use cups mounted on the side walls.