Choosing a Macaw Cage
The best cage can make a big difference in the life of macaws. It can aid in bonding the bird and help it flourish.
A good care plan includes providing plenty of toys within the cage to keep a macaw entertained and occupied. Making an informed decision is the best method to choose the ideal cage for your pet.
Size
Macaws, the biggest of domesticated bird require cages that is large enough to accommodate their size. These intelligent birds require plenty of room to play and exercise. They also like engaging toys in their cages that keep them active throughout the day. The cage should be at minimum 3 feet wide, 2 feet deep and 6 feet tall.
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 choose to place perches or toys, feeders, and food stations inside the cage, they will take up space and may make it less suitable for wing exercise.
It is also important to consider the height of the cage when choosing a macaw cage. Their tails can stretch as long as their bodies. It is crucial for the cage to be tall enough to prevent the bird from scratching its tail against the walls of the cage when it turns.
Another consideration is the dimension of the bars within the cage. Macaws are sturdy birds with strong feet and beaks, so make sure the bars of the cage are made of sturdy metal. They should also have enough space between them to prevent your bird's fingers from becoming trapped. Avoid cages that harm your bird, such as round or cages with decorative spiralwork.
A quality large bird cage is an investment in the health and happiness of your macaw. The best cage will give your pet the space needed to live a healthy and happy life. It also allows you to spend time with him, and interact with him beyond the cage.
Check out the selection of macaw cages offered at Bird Cages 4 Less. We have cages that are perfect for your macaw, whether it is the larger Empire Macaw Cage 3157 or the premium Double Macaw Bird Cage With Divider.
Bar Spacing
The most effective cages for macaws come with a a wide, solid base and are made of durable material. Lolita blue & gold macaw are great for birds who like to climb up or hang out. These cages also offer security for your bird. These features can stop the bird from accidentally fleeing and also prevent them from stealing toys or chewing on them that they find inside their cage.
The spacing between bars is another important factor to consider when choosing a cage. The cage must have bars that are not too close together as a bird can get its head or feet stuck between them while climbing. This could be extremely hazardous for birds, so the bars' spacing should be at least 3/8 inches or 1/2 inch apart for small finches. For larger parrots the bar spacing should be at least 3/4 inch or 1 inch apart.
The cage should have a wide, easy-to-open door. This will make it easier to clean the cage as well as access food and water. The front door should be bird-proof. The cage should have the space for a grate and perch since birds love to perch on the perch as well as the grate. The cage should also be equipped with an opening for a feeder that swings out, a slide out tray, a bird-guard rail, and a moveable divider that can turn a cage into two.
The cage should also be rectangular or square in shape rather than round as the odd angles could restrict toes and make it difficult for birds to move around. Avoid cages that have plastic mesh on top and sides because birds can easily chew through them. Galvanized cages should be rinsed thoroughly as the process may leave traces of zinc and other metals on the wire that are toxic to birds.
A cage can give your pet joy or frustration. Be sure to look at the factors mentioned above before you purchase an animal cage. When you choose a cage that fits the needs of your pet and requirements, your pet will live a more pleasant life and you will be happier as well.
Toys
Macaws are intelligent birds, good talkers, and live long (up to 100 years). They can be destructive, which is why it is important to provide them with toys and cages that will keep them occupied and entertained.
It is crucial to provide a variety of toys them to play with. They are social and like to interact with their human. It is important to give them plenty of chewing materials that will keep their teeth busy. My cockatoo Lily was one of them. She was a fan of shredding and turning books into "confetti", which she would then fling all over the room. I was required to spend a long time each morning sweeping up the confetti.
There are many parrot toys, however you may already have some at home. Natural branches, such as those found outside can entertain for hours and can also be used to create foot or hand toys. Untreated lumber from the local home improvement store or even a nearby woodworking shop is an inexpensive toy that can give hours of entertainment to your bird. The key is hanging non-toxic branches from the bars of the cage of your bird in small pieces. Some of these branches can also be spliced with cotton or sisal, and rope to create various toys.
It can take time and patience for a cockatoo or any other bird, who isn't used to toys, to accept them and play with them. At first keep the toys out of view and gradually bring them closer. In time, the majority of birds will learn to play with toys that aren't their own.
If you are looking for a larger cage that will accommodate your Macaw we have a number of stainless steel cages and aviaries of various sizes that are perfect for this large bird species. You can also purchase a birdcage specifically built for this type of large bird so you can ensure it is safe and sturdy enough to stand up to their powerful beaks and claws.
Safety
Macaws can be smart and curious birds, but they also have a tendency to accidents if their cages are not appropriate. This is why it is crucial to put safety first when choosing a cage for your pet. A few critical considerations include the size of the cage, bar spacing, and the materials used to construct the cage.
Macaws require ample space to move around, stretch their wings, and engage in natural behaviors that improve their overall health. A larger cage lets them do this and offers a safe, secure barrier that prevents stress and boredom.
The ideal size for a cage is 5 to 6 feet tall and wide. This will allow the bird to fly free, which is essential to its well-being. The cage must be made of durable materials such as stainless steel to withstand the constant biting these large birds get.
Due to their durability and safety stainless steel cages are a favorite with pet owners. They provide more ventilation and visibility, while also keeping your macaws safe from getting trapped by sharp metal components which could cause harm. Many cages made of stainless steel come with wider openings for doors, making it easier to clean and interact with your pet.
Toys offer both enjoyment and enrichment for macaws. Providing a variety of toys and rotating them on a weekly basis promotes mental stimulation and supports your pet's natural instincts to hunt. Toys should also be made from durable materials that can withstand a macaw's flying and are safe to ingest or chew.
When building a cage, it's also important to avoid using materials that can be toxic to macaws. Paints and finishes containing lead as well as other harmful chemicals are some of the most toxic materials. Look for cages that are made of non-toxic substances that are in compliance with government regulations.
Finally, be sure to provide your macaw with plenty of time for socialization outside their cage. This helps them bond with their humans and reduces stress and anxiety and promotes healthy behavior. Ideally the socialization process should take place in a quiet dark, dark space away from the distractions of other pets or children within your home.