Frequently Asked Questions about Parrot Care

Did you know that there are over 100 different types of parakeets? These cute little birds have undoubtedly won many hearts. They are adorable, affectionate, and full of personality! In this article, a local veterinarian discusses the parakeet and provides some basic care guidelines.

Parakeet Basics
The Psittacidae branch of the parrot family tree is home to approximately 115 parrots. The common parakeet is native to Australia and was originally described in 1805. Parakeets are small with long tails. They can have a variety of feather colors, but the most common ones are green, blue, or yellow. With proper care, they can live for 10-12 years and grow to be 7 inches long.

Do Parakeets Have To Be Kept In Pairs?
This isn’t required, but it’s strongly suggested. Parakeets are extremely friendly and thrive  with buddies. Keep in mind that if you adopt two birds, they will bond with each other. If you only get one, the bird will (hopefully) bond with you. That may sound charming, but you will need to spend plenty of time with Polly each day to keep her from being lonely.
Even though parakeets are sociable animals, there is no assurance that particular birds will get along. Introductions must be done slowly. You’ll have to monitor things, especially at beginning.
Consult with your Middletown, DE veterinarian for particular guidance.

What Type of Cages Do Parakeets Require?

Different varieties of birds require different sorts of cages, so do your research before purchasing one.

Here are some tips for that:

Choose the Right Cage
A cage of at least 18″ x 18″ x 18″ is required for a single parakeet. If you have two birds, that minimum dimension increases to 30″ x 18″ x 18″. In general, though, you should get the largest cage you can fit. 

Shape is also important. Birdcages come in many different shapes! Parakeets fly from side to side, thus they require a cage with both vertical and horizontal dimensions.

Consider Making A Stand
you do not need to purchase a stand; you can utilize a piece of furniture instead. Just be careful if you own a cat. (We perhaps should say ‘are owned by a cat’ but that’s another topic.)

Don’t Overlook Safety Concerns
keep safety in mind! One thing to look for is proper bar spacing. Ideally, these should be less than half an inch apart, though the maximum recommended size for some birds is 5/8″. Examine the cage thoroughly to ensure there are no small fragments or sharp edges that could harm your pet. Also, review the cage’s specifications and determine its composition. Stainless steel and powder-coated steel are both good choices. Avoid anything containing zinc or lead because they are hazardous to birds.

For more information about bird cages, consult with your veterinarian.

Go With Extras
When browsing for a cage, you’re likely to choose cages with unique accessories. These could be slide-out trays, retractable tops, or doors with convenient access. While these features may increase the price slightly, they are usually well worth the extra expense.
One disadvantage of those magnificent old cages is that they provide more beauty than utility.

What Foods Do Parakeets Eat?
Nutrition is key to all of our animal companions’ health and well-being. Polly can eat a high-quality parakeet food. You can select either a seed or a pellet shape. Both are acceptable; just do not switch back and forth arbitrarily. Changes to a pet’s food should always be done gradually.

Can I Give Parakeets Treats?
Yes! Just stick with safe choices Ask your veterinarian for a precise list of goodies.

Here are a few potential options:

• Fruits: Apples (without seeds or pips), grapes, mango, banana, passion fruit, papaya, and peaches are some possibilities. However, fruits are heavy in sugar and should be given sparingly.
• Pasta: Pasta is also OK and is very popular among our feathered friends. You may serve it raw or cooked; Polly will likely appreciate it both ways.
• Nuts: Almonds, cashews, pecans, walnuts, pistachios, hazelnuts, and macadamias.
• Seeds: While not all seeds are good for birds, watermelon seeds, millet, sunflower seeds, and chia seeds are all edible.
• Popcorn: Popcorn is a nutritious and easy food for both humans and parrots! Simply feed your pet her meal without the salt, butter, or garnishes.
• Other: Your parakeet may also consume modest amounts of bread, grain, and cereals. However, avoid going overboard with these carb-heavy snacks.

Consult with your Middletown, DE veterinarian for particular guidance.

Schedule an Appointment at Our Middletown, DE Pet Hospital

Do you have any questions regarding how to care for a parakeet? Please do not hesitate to contact us at anytime. As your Middletown, DE pet hospital, we are committed to providing excellent service!