Cockatiel housing

Proper housing for a cockatiel is essential for their overall health, happiness, and well-being. The cage should be spacious enough to allow the bird to move freely, stretch its wings, and engage in playful activities. A minimum cage size for a single cockatiel is 24 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 30 inches high, but larger is always better. A cockatiel needs enough room to fly short distances and stay active, as physical exercise is key to preventing obesity and boredom.

In addition to size, the cage should have horizontal bars on at least two sides to allow for climbing, which cockatiels enjoy. The bar spacing should be between 0.5 and 0.75 inches to ensure safety. Inside the cage, place a variety of perches of different textures and thicknesses to help maintain your bird’s foot health. Adding toys like swings, bells, and chewable items provides mental stimulation. The cage should be located in a draft-free area with plenty of natural light but away from direct sunlight and harsh temperature changes. Regularly clean the cage to prevent bacteria buildup, and provide fresh water and food daily.

In addition to the cage, allow your cockatiel supervised out-of-cage time for extra exercise and social interaction. This helps keep them mentally and physically stimulated. Creating a safe environment both inside and outside the cage is essential for a happy and healthy cockatiel.