Choosing a Macaw Cage
The best cage can make a big difference in the life of macaws. It can improve the bonding between the bird and help it flourish.
A healthy pet should also have plenty of toys in the cage to keep a macaw entertained and occupied. The best method to select the appropriate cage for your pet is to make an informed decision.
Size
Macaws are the largest domesticated parrots, and require a cage that can handle their size. They require plenty of space to play and exercise and they love having stimulating toys in their cages to keep them occupied throughout the day. The ideal cage should be at minimum 3 feet wide, 2.5 feet deep, and 6 feet high.
The recommended minimum cage size 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 add perches, toys and food stations to your cage, it will take up more space and leave less for the bird's wings.
In addition to the size of a macaw's cage you also need to take into consideration its height, as their tails can be as long as their bodies. The cage should be tall enough to ensure that the bird's tail doesn't scrape against the walls of the cage as it turns.
Another consideration is the dimensions of the bars inside the cage. Macaws are sturdy birds that have strong feet and beaks, so ensure that the bars of the cage are constructed of sturdy metal. They should also have enough space between them to keep your bird's fingers from getting caught. You also want to beware of cage designs that could affect your bird's safety, such as round cages or cages that have decorative scrollwork.
A high-quality large bird cage is a good investment in the well-being and happiness of your macaw. The best cage will give your bird the space it needs to live a healthy and happy life, while also allowing you to spend more time with him and interact with him outside of the cage.
Check out the selection of macaw cages at Bird Cages 4 Less. We have cages that are ideal for your macaw, no matter if it's the larger Empire Macaw Cage 3157 or the deluxe Double Macaw Bird Cage With Divider.
Bar Spacing
The best cages for macaws are ones with a a wide, solid base and are made of tough material. These cages are perfect for birds that like to climb or hang out. They also offer security for the bird. These features prevent the bird from accidentally escaping and stop them from stealing or chewing through toys that they find in their cage.
Another crucial aspect to consider when selecting a cage is the bar spacing. The cage needs to have bars that aren't too close together because birds could get their feet or head stuck between them when they are climbing. This could be very hazardous for birds, so the spacing between bars should be at least 3/8 inch or 1/2 inch apart for tiny finches. For larger parrots the bar spacing must be 1 inch apart.
The cage should be spacious and easy to open door. This will make it easier to clean the cage and also access water and food. The front door should be bird-proof. The cage should also have an apron and grate because birds love to perch on them. The cage should include a sliding tray as well as a swing-out feeder entrance, and a bird guardrail.
The cage should also be a rectangular or square shape rather than round as the odd angles can hinder toes and make it difficult for birds to move around. Avoid cages that have mesh of plastic on sides and tops since birds can easily chew through the mesh. Galvanized cages must be cleaned thoroughly since the process could leave trace amounts of zinc and other metals on the wire which are toxic to birds.
A cage can bring your pet satisfaction or anger. Make sure you consider the factors above before you buy an animal cage. When you choose the best cage that meets your bird's needs you will be able to give your pet a more pleasant life and you'll be happy too.
Toys
Macaws can live to 100 years and are intelligent birds. They can be destructive, which is why it's essential to provide them with cages and toys which keep them entertained and stimulated.
They are very social and like to interact with their humans so having a variety of toys that they can play with together or individually is crucial. It is important to give them plenty of chewing material that will keep their teeth busy. My cockatoo Lily, for example, was fond of shredding and turning books into "confetti", which she would then throw all over the place. I was required to spend a long time every day cleaning up the dust.
You can buy many parrot toys, however you may already have some in your home. Natural branches, like ones found outside can provide hours of entertainment and can be used to create hand or foot toys. Untreated lumber that is cut off from your local home improvement store, or a woodworking shop can be a low-cost toy that will provide your bird endless hours of enjoyment. The trick is to have lots of non-toxic, care-fully cleaned branches that can be hung from the bars of their cage and handed to them in small pieces. Some branches can be spliced together with rope strips and cotton or sisal to create more toy options.
If you have a cockatoo, or other bird that is not used to playing with toys, it may take some time and patience to get them to play with them. In the beginning, keep the toys out of view and slowly bring them closer. Most birds will eventually learn to play with toys they don't own.
If you are looking for a larger cage that will accommodate your Macaw, we offer several stainless steel cages and aviaries of various sizes that are perfect for this large bird species. You can also buy a birdcage custom-built for this species to ensure it's robust and secure enough to withstand their powerful claws or beaks.
Safety
Macaws can be smart and curious birds, but they are also prone to accidents if their cages are not suitable. It is crucial to put your focus on safety when selecting the cage for your pet. The most important aspects to consider are the dimensions of the cage as well as the spacing between bars and the materials employed in the construction of the cage.
Ziggy hyacinth macaw parrots for sale require ample space to move about, extend their wings, and engage in normal behaviors that improve their overall health. A larger cage provides them with the space to do this and also provides a safe and secure barrier that prevents boredom and stress.
The ideal cage size should be at a minimum 5-6 feet high and wide. This ensures that the bird is free to move around the space, which is vital for their health. The cage should also be constructed with sturdy materials, like stainless steel, which can withstand the frequent chewing that occurs in these large birds.
Due to their durability and security, stainless steel cages are a favorite among pet owners. They offer increased ventilation and visibility while also protecting your macaw from getting caught in sharp metal parts that can be harmful to them. Many cages made of stainless steel have larger openings for the doors, which makes it easier to clean and interact with your pet.
Toys are a crucial part of a macaw cage that can be used for entertainment as well as enrichment. Rotating toys on a weekly basis will stimulate your pet's brain and help it develop its natural foraging instincts. Toys should be made of durable materials that can withstand the force of a macaw's flying and are safe to chew or ingest.
It is essential to avoid building substances that can be harmful to macaws when making cages. Paints and finishes containing lead and other harmful chemical are some of the most common toxic materials. Make sure you choose cages made of non-toxic materials that are in compliance with government regulations.
Allow your macaw to interact outside of its cage. This helps them bond with their human, reduces anxiety and stress and promotes healthy behavior. The ideal socialization happens in a quiet, dark area away from other pets and children.