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Post Sigmon posted an update 1 week, 4 days ago
Choosing a Macaw Cage
The proper cage can make a huge difference in the life of macaws. It can aid in bonding the bird and help it grow.
To keep a macaw entertained and stimulated, it’s essential to provide plenty of toys in the cage. Making an informed choice is the best way to select the perfect cage for your pet.
Size
Macaws, the largest domesticated birds, require a cage large enough to accommodate their size. These intelligent birds need plenty of space to play and exercise and they also appreciate having fun toys in their cages to keep them engaged throughout the day. The cage should be at least 3 feet wide, 2 feet deep and 6 feet high.
The recommended minimum size of cage for macaws is 1.5 to 2x the size of the bird’s wingspan in order to allow them to move and exercise. If you decide to put perches and toys, feeders and food stations in the cage, it will take up space and cause less space for the exercise of the wings.
You should also consider the height of the cage when choosing macaw cages. Their tails can grow to be as long as their bodies. The cage must be tall enough that the bird’s tail doesn’t scratch against the cage’s walls when it turns.
The size of the bars is a different factor to consider. Macaws are sturdy birds with sturdy feet and beaks, therefore make sure the bars of the cage are constructed from sturdy metal. They must also have enough space to keep your bird’s fingers from getting trapped. Avoid cages that harm your bird, such as round cages or cages that have decorative spiralwork.
harlequin macaw is an investment in the well-being and happiness of your macaw. A cage that is suitable will provide your pet with the space it needs to live a happy and healthy life, while also allowing you to spend more time with him and interact with him outside of the cage.
If you are ready to buy a stunning cage for your macaw bird, check out our selection of cages at Bird Cages 4 Less. From the larger Empire Macaw Cage 3157 to the deluxe Double Macaw Bird Cage with Divider We have a cage that is ideal for your pet and will look stunning in your home.
Bar Spacing
The most effective cages for macaws come with a an expansive, solid base and are made of durable material. These cages are great for birds that like to climb up or hang out. These cages also offer security for your bird. These features can stop birds from escaping accidentally and prevent them from stealing or chewing through toys that they discover in their cage.
Another important aspect to consider when choosing a cage is the bar spacing. The cage should have bars that are not too close to each other because birds could get their feet or head stuck between them while climbing. This is very risky for a bird therefore the bar spacing needs to be at least 1 inch apart or 3/8 inch for smaller finches. For larger parrots the bar spacing should be either 3/4 inch or 1inch apart.
The cage should have a wide, easy-to-open door. This makes it easier to clean the cage and access water and food. The front door must be bird-proof. The cage should have an area for a grate and perch since birds love to rest on the perch as well as the grate. The cage should be equipped with an open tray, a swing-out feeder door and a bird-safety railing.
Lastly, the cage should be a rectangular or square shape rather than round as the odd angles can trap toes and be difficult for birds to maneuver. Avoid cages that have mesh on the sides and top because birds are able to gnaw through it. Galvanized cages need to be thoroughly cleaned as the process can leave toxic zinc and metals on the wire.
A cage is a crucial element of your pet’s life and can bring great joy or frustration. Make sure you think about the above factors before you purchase a cage for your pet. If you choose the right cage for your bird both you and your pet will be happier.
Toys
Macaws can live to 100 years and are intelligent birds. They are destructive, so it is important to provide them with toys and cages that keep them entertained and stimulated.
They are extremely social and love to interact with their owners, so having various toys that can be played with either individually or in a group is vital. It is crucial to provide them plenty of chewing materials to keep their beaks active. For example my cockatoo Lily loved to shred books and make them into “confetti” which she would fling around the room for hours. I would have to spend hours each morning sweeping up the dust.
You can purchase a variety of parrot toys, but you might already have a few in your home. Natural branches, such as ones found outside, can provide hours of entertainment and can also be used to make hand or foot toys. Untreated lumber cut offs from your local home improvement store or even a woodworking shop can be a cheap toy that can give your bird endless hours of enjoyment. The key is to hang non-toxic branches from the bars of the cage of your bird in small pieces. Some branches can be joined with sisal or cotton, and rope to make various toys.
It can take time and patience for a cockatoo or any bird that isn’t accustomed to toys to accept them and play with them. In the beginning, keep the toys out of sight and gradually bring them closer. At some point, birds will be able to play with toys that are not their own.
We offer a variety of stainless steel cages of various sizes that are ideal for Macaws. You can also buy an individual birdcage built for this type of large bird so you can be sure it is secure and sturdy enough to hold up to their powerful claws and beaks.
Safety
Macaws can be smart and curious birds, however they also have a tendency to accidents if their cage is not suitable. For this reason, it is essential to consider safety when choosing a cage for your pet. Some of the most important considerations include the dimensions of the cage and bar spacing as well as the materials employed in the construction of the cage.
Macaws need ample room to move about, extend their wings, and engage in natural behaviors that improve their overall health. A larger cage allows them to accomplish this and offers an environment that is safe and secure that helps prevent boredom and stress.
The ideal cage size is at least 5 to 6 feet in height and width. This will allow the bird to fly freely which is crucial for its health. The cage should also be constructed with sturdy materials, like stainless steel, to withstand the frequent chewing that happens in these large birds.
Due to their durability and safety, stainless steel cages are a favorite among pet owners. They provide greater visibility and ventilation while preventing your macaw from becoming trapped in sharp metal components that can be harmful to them. Many stainless steel cages have larger openings for the doors, making it easier to clean and interact with your pet.
Toys offer both stimulation and enrichment for macaws. The provision of a variety and rotating them every week encourages mental stimulation and strengthens your pet’s natural foraging instincts. Additionally, toy items must be made of durable materials that can withstand the force of a macaw flying and are safe from ingesting or chewing.
When building a cage, it’s also important to avoid using materials that could be toxic to macaws. Paints and finishes containing lead as well as other harmful chemicals are some of the most common toxic materials. Look for cages that are made of non-toxic materials that comply with the regulations of the government.
Allow your macaws to interact outside of its cage. This helps them bond with their owners, lessens anxiety and stress and promotes healthy behavior. Ideally socializing should be conducted in a quiet dark and dark area away from the sounds of children or other pets in your home.