Bird Cage Supplies

Here is a list of must have bird cage supplies for every parrot and bird owner. While some of the items may not apply to you, for the most part these bird cage supplies are universal in properly caring for pet birds and parrots.

1. Water Bottles

Every bird owner should have two water bottles per cage. I recommend the Lixit water bottle simply because it is easy to clean and has replacement parts available. Why two water bottles per cage? Having one clean water bottle ready to go makes changing out a snap and will save you time doing your regular bird cage maintenance.

1. Bottle Brushes

There is no use having a water bottle without having some bottle brushes to clean your birds water bottles. You will need to reach the hard to get at spots and a bottle brush makes this easy

3. Coop Cups and Crocks

Coop cups and crocks are necessary for food and other treats. Having extra on hand allows you to remove the dirty cups and to replace them with clean cups and crocks. This will speed up your cage cleaning time as well.

4. Full Spectrum Lighting

Full Spectrum Lighting is important for Every type of pet bird and parrot. Natural light is filtered out by glass and screens. A reptile bulb that emits UVA and UVB will not work! This could be dangerous to your bird. Buy a fixture and a full spectrum bulb made specifically for birds. This will supply them with enough UVA and UVB light to enable them to metabolize vitamins properly. In addition, birds rely on the UV spectrum for proper sight.

5. Perches and Swings

One perch will not do! Your bird(s) will require a few perches in appropriately sized widths that vary. Providing different sized perches and textures will help keep your birds feet in tip top shape. Having one perch to sit on will certainly cramp your birds feet. A swing is not necessary however many birds enjoy swings. In the wild, branches are not one diameter and so your perches should not be as well

6. Toys.

Toys, toys, and more toys! Provide your bird with as many types of toys possible. Have a variety of hanging toys, bolt on toys, foot toys, and foraging toys. Keep extra on hand so you can rotate them from the cage for regular cleaning and inspections. This also helps alleviate boredom.

7. Cozies And Tents

Most birds enjoy sleeping in a place that makes them feel safe. Cozies and tents provide comfort on most sides giving your bird the feeling of safety. Most birds don't sleep out in the open in the wild. Most prefer to roost in a hollow, nest, or crevice to keep them safe from predators.

8. Cuttle Bones and Mineral Blocks

Many birds need to get added calcium and minerals. Especially those who are on the "Death Diet" of all seeds. Cuttle bones and mineral blocks help to keep beaks trim and provide added nutrients.

9. The Controversial Mirror

I recommend mirrors for birds that are alone. Despite what many people have to say about this, it often provides some fun playtime for your bird. Unless you bird begins laying eggs chronically or becomes obsessed with the mirror, there is no reason to not have one in the cage.

10. Food

Pelleted food is best for your bird as it's mainstay. Pelleted food provides everything your bird needs for proper nutrition. Along with pelleted food, offer a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, nuts, and some seeds. There are many other types of nutritious treats such as bird bread, Nutriberries, yogurt covered treats, and mini popcorn that your bird may also enjoy.