Category: Cages

Cages can be a big investment and choosing the right cage can be a tough decision, so it is important to make your purchase last. Cages are now powder-coated to protect the metal underneath and to give the cage a nice finish. Typically the more frequently you wash the cage, the more exposure it has to water, which can lead to rust. But, it is important for your bird’s health AND yours to keep the cage clean and sanitary, so try these cage cleaning tips:

• Avoid power-washers which may be too strong and can chip or damage the powder-coating; or opt for a lower setting.

• If you wash your cage frequently, or if it is a necessity due to an extra-messy bird, dry the cage quickly by toweling off the excess water.

• If your cage does not need frequent washing, opt for “spot-cleaning” areas and only washing the grate and tray. For the rest of the cage, use a lightly damp rag to wipe off the dust and dander.

• The largest area of damage tends to be on trays. Bird droppings are acidic and over time can wear through the powder-coating. Cut a piece of plastic to the size of your tray and use papers or bedding on top of the plastic.

• Change papers or remove soiled / wet bedding daily. If left for long periods of time, moisture from the droppings can cause the powder-coating of the tray to bubbling and rust.

• Avoid using harsh metal wire brushes for scraping and cleaning. Instead use Poop-Off to help break down droppings and use plastic bristle scrubbers or sponges.

• The smaller the mess, the smaller the task- don’t wait until droppings are caked on like concrete. Each night take just a few minutes to wipe up messes with a damp paper towel.

• Don’t store unused cages outside. Over time, moisture in the air and UV from the sun can damage the powder-coating.

Many people think a cage cover is a bird-keeping necessity, but they aren’t sure why. Birds should have between 9-12 hours of sleep, but whether they are covered or uncovered is more of a personal preference and depends on your household.

If using a cover, frequently check it for snags and holes, this could be a health hazard where a bird could get caught or tangled in the cover.

You may want to consider covering your bird’s cage at night if:

– you stay up much later than your bird, and he is in the same room where you may have a tv on, or bright lights, music, or a lot of activity or conversation. All these things can be disruptive to their amount and quality of sleep. You may even consider a small sleeping cage that can be placed in a darker, quieter area of the home.

– your bird wakes up early. Having a covered cage can simulate a longer sleeping period by keeping it darker. Or try the opposite, and put them to bed early. Shorter daylight hours may also help hens that excessively lay eggs.

– you keep your bird outside. If your bird is acclimated to outdoor temperatures, it can still be beneficial to cover them at night to keep out drafts, outside noises and movement, and even help prevent wild night-time critters from bothering your birds.

– your bird has night-fright. This is common in cockatiels, and it is not well understood. Having a cover could help by blocking out shadows and other night-fright triggers. (Others suggest having a night light by the cage so if your bird is panicked, they can orient themselves and see their surroundings)