Parakeet

A parakeet is a good companion for:

Children under 5

Seniors

Apartments/Condos

Children ages 5–11

Busy People

Rural Homes

Life Span

Generally the life span for a parakeet is seven to 12 years.

Typical Behavior

Parakeets make wonderful companions. In the wild, parakeets live in flocks and prefer the company of at least another parakeet in a domestic environment. They are intelligent and entertaining to watch, and can be trained to do simple tricks and even talk. Some parakeets have a learned vocabulary that includes more than 100 words. If a parakeet is not tame when adopted, it can be taught to be friendly. There are books available through any pet supply store with tips on how to tame and train a parakeet.

Care Requirements

There are common items found in many households that are a danger to parakeets, especially if the bird is allowed outside its cage and its wings are not clipped. These include a rotating ceiling fan, certain houseplants, Febreze products, insecticides, insect pest strips, a sink or tub of hot water, open windows, other pets, spoiled food, string and thread. In addition, the fumes from oven-cleaning products or a self-cleaning oven can be deadly. Using Teflon pans can also release toxins that are harmful to birds.

Proper Habitat and Habitat Maintenance Requirements

The larger the cage you can provide a parakeet, the happier it will be. There should be a cuttlebone inside the cage that a parakeet will use to keep its beak conditioned. Parakeets enjoy playing with toys and there are many specifically designed for parakeets at pet supply stores. Some sunlight is good for a parakeet, as long as it does not cause the bird to get too hot. A towel, sheet or light blanket can act as a cage cover and can be put over the cage at night to keep the bird warmer in cold weather and to make the bird feel safe. Cages should be cleaned twice a week. To make it easier to clean a cage, the bottom can be lined with paper towels, butcher paper or newsprint paper. However, do not use your local newspaper to line the cage because printed ink can be harmful to a bird. There are special types of cage floor coverings that can be purchased at a pet supply store. Perches and toys should be cleaned once a week.

Dietary Requirements

The primary food for a parakeet is seed specifically designed for this type of bird and available at your local pet supply store. There are a variety of treats that can be purchased for parakeets too. You also should offer your parakeet fresh fruit and vegetables in moderation. If these are not eaten within a couple hours, remove them from the cage. Never offer an avocado to your parakeet, as it can be deadly to birds. Fresh drinking water should be in the cage at all times and vitamins designed for parakeets can be added. Be sure to regularly clean the water bottle to keep bacteria from forming.

Financial Considerations for Parakeets:

Veterinary

Birds do not normally require annual veterinary visits; however, it is important to keep a close eye on your parakeet because signs of illness can be very subtle. If you suspect your parakeet is sick, get it to a veterinarian immediately. Be sure to choose a veterinarian that specializes in birds. Specialized veterinarians sometimes charge higher rates.

Grooming

Most parakeets love to take a bath. There are special bathtubs that can be purchased for this purpose. Be sure to give your bird a bath when it is warm and there are no drafts. The water should be room temperature. Do not leave the bathtub in the cage for more than half an hour after the bird has had its bath.

Animal Sitter

A professional pet sitter, a friend or neighbor can care for your parakeet in your absence.

Food

The cost to feed your parakeet will vary; however, it is recommended that you purchase a high quality seed that can cost $5 to $15 per bag.

Other Supplies:

Generally, a parakeet will require a cage, a cage stand, treats, toys, a cage cover, perches, a water bottle, seed and a food dish, a cuttlebone and a bathtub.

Interesting Facts about Parakeets:

• Generally, a male parakeet will have a bluish bump above its beak, while a female has a brown bump.
• When parakeets find a mate, they stay together for life.
• Parakeets poop every 12 to 15 minutes.
• Parakeets can turn their heads 180 degrees.