Your macaw will be happy in your homemade cage.
One of the most beautiful and intelligent birds in the world, the macaw makes a wonderful pet. Being large in nature, the macaw needs an adequate-sized cage. These cages can cost hundreds of dollars when purchased new, but there is a more economical way to make your own macaw cage. One such way is to use a dog kennel and add macaw necessities to the cage.
Choosing a Kennel for a Cage
Because macaws are the largest parrot in the world, they need the biggest dog kennel you can find. Since macaws are not like all birds, purchase a cage made of stainless steel or galvanized metal to avoid rusting and flaking which can be poisonous to the macaw. The bars also need to be no greater than one inch apart to avoid getting its head stuck. The bars also need to be stronger than your bird, since macaws can apply an enormous amount of pressure with their beaks. The cage should be welded together with no nuts and bolts, as these pose a choking hazard. The cage needs to be large enough for your macaw to move back and forth and to spread both of its wings to their full extent.
Converting the Kennel into a Cage
To convert the kennel into a macaw cage, simply add things your bird will need to make the cage its home. Several feeding stations will allow you to offer water as well as a few different types of food. You also are then able to clean one set while still allowing your macaw to use the other set. The food dishes clip on to the bars of the cage. Durable, safe toys are also a must for your macaw to help prevent your bird from chewing on other things. Blue and gold macaws enjoy large interactive toys that they can rattle around. Because macaws are smart birds, they bore easily of the same toys. Buy twice as many toys as you need and rotate them every couple of weeks. Adding perches of different thicknesses will help keep your bird's feet in good health. The perches must be thick enough for the bird to sit without its claws turning inward; stay away from sandpaper covered perches that can damage their feet. . Perches can hang from the top of the cage or attach across the cage bars. Macaws can be messy with dropped food and waste, so adding a floor and paper lining to the bottom of the cage is very important. A metal tray makes a good floor and the lip on the sides prevent spilling when removing it to clean it. A locking mechanism is an important item to add to your cage to avoid an accidental escape. The lock should be one your bird either cannot reach or is unable to figure out.
Make the Cage Last a Lifetime
Because blue and gold macaws can live into their 70s, your cage should be durable and long-lasting. Consider your bird as a lifelong companion, and keep its home clean, tidy and interesting on a daily basis. Clean the cage thoroughly with a damp paper towel and rubbing alcohol and the tray with a chlorine solution. By giving your macaw plenty of stimulating toys, it will be less likely to chew on the bars and your cage should last your bird its lifetime.
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