What is the best cage for my cockatiel?
Of course birds like the biggest cage possible so the bigger the better. The problem is that to get a big cage you need a big budget. Cockatiels are relatively small birds so they don’t need a huge cage but you want them to have enough room to stretch and move easily.
What is the minimum cage size?
The minimum cage size for a regular-size cockatiel would be:
- 18 inches across
- 18 inches wide
- 25 inches high
What is the maximum cage size?
Even if I said that the bigger is the better, I would not go for a cage that is larger than:
- 50 inches across
- 50 inches wide
- 75 inches high
Because the cockatiel could be scared being in such a big cage relative to its size. Keep those cages for big parrots like the Cockatoo and the African Grey.
Here are examples of good cages for your cockatiel:
Find more great cages at Amazon.
Extra Tips
Your cockatiel should be able to stretch its wings and flap them without touching the sides of the cage. Its tail should touch the bottom of the cage when it is resting on a perch.
Do not overload your cage with perches, toys, etc. because it will make the cage seem smaller. For a cockatiel cage, you should opt for one or two toys, one main perch and two smaller ones and two bowls: one for water and one for seeds.
The best toys for cockatiels are the ones you can hang from the bars, are destructible and healthy for your bird. You can also get perches that are made out of a material good for your cockatiel claws.
Make sure the cage you are buying has both horizontal and vertical bars to allow your cockatiel to climb. Even more important, the spacing between the bars should be equal or less than ¾ of an inch so your cockatiel doesn’t get its head caught in the bars.
To make your life easier, search for a cage with a removable tray at the bottom and with skirts on the sides to catch falling seeds and poops. Cages with a top playpen are now offered and are great for your cockatiel.
