What Size Should a Pet Bird Cage Be?

Budgie in a large cage

If you’re thinking of having a pet bird, then you’ll need to ensure you get the right size and fit cage, so the bird has plenty of room. But what size should it be?

Many people keep birds as pets and it’s essential to have all the right equipment to make their lives as fulfilling as possible.

One absolute necessity is a bird cage, in which they will be housed for much of the time.

The size of the cage will depend on what type of bird you want to keep as a pet, but there are also other factors involved too.

Bird Cage Size

There are various recommendations available for pet bird owners as to the minimum sizes of cage that should be used for different types of birds.

These recommendations are very much geared towards the minimum size, as it’s widely recognised that the bigger the cage and the more space a bird has, the better it is.

Birds benefit from having a larger cage as it gives them a good amount of space in which to move around in, be active and exercise in – even smaller birds benefit from large spaces.

As well as the actual size of a bird, you need to take into consideration the size of its tail too.

For example, birds with longer tails will need taller cages than short tailed birds. The minimum cage space for various different types and sizes of birds is as follows:

  • Canaries – need a cage with a minimum width of 18” (46cm), length of 24” (61cm) and height of 18” (46cm).
  • Budgies – need a cage with a minimum width of 18” (46cm), length of 18” (46cm) and height of 24” (61cm).
  • Cockatiels – need a cage with a minimum width of 20” (51cm), length of 20” (51cm) and height of 24” (61cm).

Large birdcage with opening top
Yaheetech Open Top Bird Cage
A spacious cage with an open top. Suitable for 2-3 Budgies, Lovebirds, Canaries, etc.
W46 × D36 × H104 cm
Available from amazon.co.uk
Large birdcage with stand
Yaheetech Roof Top Bird Cage with Stand
This cage is also large enough for 2-3 birds and comes with a mobile trolley-style stand.
W46 × D36 × H158 cm
Available from amazon.co.uk

Bar Spacing in Cages

In addition to the actual size of a cage, it’s important to consider the spacing of the bars in the cage too.

This is an important safety issue for your pet bird, as having a cage with the wrong type of bar spacing fit could cause them injury.

For example, a curious bird may manage to get their feet, beak, wings or even their head caught in between bars that are too big, which could be very nasty or even prove fatal.

As in the case of bird cage size, the bar spacing sizes required vary from bird to bird. For example:

  • Canaries need bar spaces of ¼” (6cm) to ½” (13mm).
  • Budgies need bar spaces of ½” (13mm).
  • Cockatiels need bar spaces of ½” (13mm) to 5/8” (16mm).

Whilst it might be tempting to choose an inexpensive or cheap cage, especially if budget is an issue.

However, it’s a good idea to try and find a good quality cage, which may cost a bit more, as they may last longer and be better for your bird.

For example, stainless steel cages are better than cages made of cheap wire or a mix of both wire and plastic. Plus, they will tend to last longer.

If you want to put a cover over your bird cage, for example when birds are sleeping, then don’t forget to also look for a cover that is the right size fit for the cage.

Specially designed covers will usually be sold according to size, to make your choice easier.

See Also
Hamster
What Size Should Your Hamster or Small Animal Cage Be?
Rabbit sat in a straw-lined cage
How Big or Small Should Your Rabbit Hutch be?