Choosing a Macaw Cage
The proper cage can make all the difference for a pet macaw. It can help bond a bird and help it grow.
To keep a macaw amused and stimulated, it's essential to provide plenty of toys in the cage. harlequin macaw to select the best cage for your pet is to make an informed decision.
Size
Macaws, the largest domesticated bird, require a cage that is large enough to accommodate their size. These intelligent birds require plenty of space for exercise and play. They also love engaging toys in their cages to 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 around and exercise. If you choose to place perches or toys, feeders, and food stations within the cage, that will take up space and cause less space for the exercise of the wings.
It is also important to consider the height of the cage when selecting macaw cages. Their tails can grow to be as long as their bodies. The cage must be tall enough that the bird's tail does not scratch against the cage's walls as it turns.
Another factor to consider is the size of the bars in the cage. Macaws are strong with their beaks and feet, so you want to make sure that the cage's bars are made from sturdy metal and have adequate spacing to prevent your bird from getting its fingers stuck in the bars. Avoid cages that may harm your bird, for instance, cages that are round cages or cages that have attractive spiralwork.
Choosing a quality large cage for your macaw is an investment that will ensure the health and wellbeing of this beautiful pet. A good cage will give your pet the space needed to live a healthy and happy life. It will also allow you to spend time with him, and even interact with him outside of the cage.
Take a look at the variety of macaw cages at Bird Cages 4 Less. We have cages that are perfect for your macaw, whether it's the larger Empire Macaw Cage 3157 or the luxurious Double Macaw Bird Cage With Divider.
Bar Spacing
The most effective macaw cages have broad bases, constructed of durable materials. These cages are an excellent option for birds that love to climb and hang out. They also provide security to the bird. These features stop the bird from accidentally escaping and also prevent them from stealing or chewing through toys that they find in their cage.
The distance between the bars is a further aspect to consider when choosing a cage. The cage bars should not be too close together, since birds could get their feet or head stuck between them when climbing. This can be very hazardous for birds, so the bars' spacing needs to be at a minimum of 3/8 inch or 1/2 inch for tiny finches. For larger parrots the bar spacing must be 1 inch apart.
The cage should have a wide, easy-to-open door. This will make it easier to clean the cage and access water and food. The front door should also be bird-proof. The cage should also have a place for a grate and a perch since birds love to rest on the perch and grate. The cage should also include an opening for a feeder that swings out and a slide-out tray, a bird-guard rail, and a movable divider that can turn one cage into two.
Finally, the cage should be rectangular or square in shape instead of round because the odd angles can trap toes and be difficult for the bird to move around. Avoid cages with mesh on the sides and the top because birds are able to chew through it. Galvanized cages should be rinsed thoroughly as the process may leave tracetraces of zinc and other metals on the wire which are toxic to birds.
A cage can bring your pet satisfaction or anger. To ensure that you get the appropriate cage for your pet, take the time to consider all of the factors listed above. If you select the best cage for your pet, you and your pet will both be content.
Toys
Macaws are intelligent birds, good talkers, and long-lived (up to 100 years). They can be destructive, which is why it is important to provide them with toys and cages which keep them entertained and stimulated.
They are very social and like to interact with their humans so having an array of toys to play with either individually or in a group is essential. It is also important to provide lots of chewing toys that will keep their powerful beaks occupied. For instance, my cockatoo Lily was a fan of shredding books and turn them into "confetti" which she would fling across the room for hours at a time. I had to spend hours every day cleaning up the scattered confetti.
You can buy many parrot toys, however you might already have a few at home. Natural branches, like ones found outside, can provide hours of entertainment and can also be used to create foot or hand toys. Untreated lumber that is cut off from your local home improvement store, or the woodworking shop could be a low-cost toy that can give your bird hours of entertainment. The key is to have plenty of non-toxic, clean branches that can be strung from the bars of their cage and handed to them in small pieces. Some branches can be joined with sisal or cotton, and rope to make a variety of toys.
It can take time and patience for a cockatoo, or any bird who isn't used to toys, to play with them. Try to keep the toys out of their sight initially and then slowly bring them closer to their eyes. Most birds will eventually learn to play with toys that they don't own.
If you're looking for a bigger cage that can accommodate your Macaw we have several stainless steel cages and aviaries in sizes that are ideal for this species of large bird. You can also buy a birdcage specifically made for this type of large bird so you can ensure that it is safe and sturdy enough to hold up to their strong claws and beaks.
Safety
Macaws are intelligent and curious birds, but they also have a tendency to accidents if their cage is not appropriate. It is crucial to put your focus on the safety of your pet when choosing the cage for your pet. A few important aspects to consider include the dimensions of your cage, the space between bars, and the materials you use to build your cage.
Macaws require ample space to move around, stretch their wings and engage in natural behaviors that supports 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 size for a cage is 5 to 6 feet tall and wide. This will ensure that the bird is free to move around the cage, which is vital for their health. The cage should also be made of durable materials, such as stainless steel, which can be able to withstand the constant chewing that occurs in these large birds.
Due to their durability and security, stainless steel cages are popular with pet owners. They provide greater ventilation and visibility while also protecting your macaw from getting entangled in sharp metal components that could cause harm to them. Additionally some stainless steel cages are constructed with doors that are larger to facilitate easy access for cleaning and interaction with your pet.
Toys are a crucial part of a macaw's cage that provides both entertainment and enrichment. Rotating toys on a weekly schedule will stimulate your pet's brain and encourage its natural foraging instincts. Toys should also be constructed from tough materials that can withstand the force of a macaw's flight and are safe to ingest or chew.
It is important to stay clear of materials that are toxic to macaws when making a cage. A few of the most commonly used toxic substances are paints and finishes that contain lead and other harmful chemicals. You should search for cages made from non-toxic materials and that meet the requirements of the government.
Allow your macaws to interact outside of its cage. This helps them bond with their humans reduces stress and anxiety and promotes healthy behavior. The ideal socialization happens in a dark, quiet area away from children and other pets.