Parakeets

Caring for a Parakeet

Parakeets, also known as budgies (budgerigars), are an extremely popular bird, and for good reasons. These small parrots make delightful pets; they are friendly and easy to tame. While they can sometimes be difficult to understand, they are quite capable of mimicking speech. They are also beautifully colored, and their calls and songs are quite enjoyable to listen to.

General Care

Look for a parakeet that is bright, alert, and active. A bird sitting quietly with puffed feathers might be ill and is best avoided. The feathers should be smooth and shiny and should lay down flat against the body. The feathers around the vent should be clean, dry, and free of fecal matter. The scales on the feet should be smooth and the nails in good condition. The beak should be smooth and well shaped, and the nostrils should be clear and clean. Wing and nail trims are available at our Vet Clinics. Check out our vet clinic schedule at your local Kahoots.

Housing

Budgies are active and playful and should have a large cage to allow room for toys and exercise. The minimum cage size is 18 inches long by 18 inches wide, and 20 inches tall, but larger is better. The spacing of the cage bars should be 1/2 inch or less. Horizontal cage bars offer the best opportunity for climbing and exercise. There should be space to place a couple of perches at various levels with enough space for the parakeet to spread and flap their wings, and to comfortably move between the perches. Offering a variety of perch sizes will help keep their feet healthy. Even with a large cage, budgies need play and socialization outside of the cage as well. Keeping the wings trimmed is important to prevent injuries or escapes. Cover the parakeet’s cage nightly for warmth and safety.

Diet

Variety is the key to a healthy diet. Seeds can be a nutritious part of their diet but are high in fat so should not be relied upon as the majority. Pelleted diets are an excellent choice for birds, as they are nutritionally balanced and birds cannot pick out their favorite seeds – limiting their diet, though parakeets may need to be gradually transitioned to pellets if used to a seed diet. Seeds and pellets can be fed in combination, along with a wide variety of other foods to round out the diet. A variety of fresh vegetables (carrots, broccoli, corn, spinach, etc., fruit, and cooked beans or grains can be offered daily. Sprouted seeds are also an excellent way to add variety to your bird's diet. Avocados, caffeine, and foods high in sugar should be avoided. A cuttle bone can be provided as a source of calcium.

Cleaning

Tray lining should be replaced at least once a week or more if needed, and the cage bottom, fittings and dishes regularly washed with a safe birdcage cleaner.

Health

Parakeets should be examined by a qualified Avian vet if any bleeding, injuries, or other signs are noted. It can be hard to tell when a bird is ill, and by the time you notice a problem, the sickness is usually well advanced. Delaying a visit with an Avian vet or using over the counter or human medicines may be fatal.

Warnings

Parakeets have extremely sensitive respiratory systems and should not be exposed to cigarette smoke, aerosols, cleaning products, or other toxic fumes. Do not use “non-stick” frying pans near a caged bird.

Companion animals are potential carriers of infectious diseases that can be passed to humans. Taking these simple precautions can help prevent the potential spread of diseases:

  • Always wash your hands before and after handling your pet and/or habitat contents
  • Carry hand sanitizer when venturing outside of your home with pet
  • Do not kiss or let your mouth come into contact with your pet
  • Keep your companion’s habitat, water & food bowls, décor, and other surfaces as clean as possible and remove droppings daily

Pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems should speak with their physician when considering a new pet. For more information regarding pets and disease, go to the Center for Disease Control at cdc.gov/healthypets/. The information provided on this Care Sheet is not a substitute for veterinary care. It is strongly advised to seek further information on the care of your animal. In the event of serious health concerns please consult your veterinarian.

Recommended Supplies at Your Nearest Kahoots

  • Kahoots Parakeet Food
  • Pelleted Bird Food
  • Food & Water dishes
  • Perch
  • Cuttlebone
  • Mineral Block
  • Bird Treats
  • 2-3 Toys
  • Bird Vitamins
  • Spray Bottle (for bathing)
  • Nail Trimmer

Additional recommended Supplies

  • 18”x18”x23”or larger cage
  • 1-2 perches, different diameters for foot health
  • Bird Safe Cage Cleaner