Parakeets make good pets for many people. They come from Australia. These birds live in flocks there. In homes, they need care to stay healthy. This guide covers all you need to know. It helps new owners start right.
What Is a Parakeet?
A parakeet is also called a budgerigar or budgie. They have bright colors like green, blue, or yellow. Males often have a blue area above their beak. Females have a brown or pink one. Parakeets grow to about 7 inches long. They weigh 1 to 1.5 ounces. With good care, they live 7 to 15 years. Some reach 20 years.
Parakeets are smart. They mimic sounds. Some learn words. They like people who spend time with them. If alone, they need extra play. Pairs keep each other company. But watch for fights if not same sex.
Do Parakeets Make Good Pets?
Yes, for people with time. They suit apartments. Parakeets are quiet most days. They chirp happily. Kids can learn from them if supervised. These birds cost $20 to $100 to buy. Yearly care runs $300 or more. This covers food, toys, and vet visits.
They bond with owners. Hand-tamed ones sit on fingers. Untamed ones take weeks to trust. Start slow. Talk soft. Offer treats.
Set Up a Safe Home for Your Parakeet
Choose a big cage. One bird needs at least 18 by 18 by 18 inches. Bigger is best for flight. Bars should space 0.5 inches apart. Use square or rectangle shape. Round cages confuse birds.
Put the cage in a room with people. Avoid kitchens. Fumes from cooking hurt lungs. Keep away from windows for no drafts. Room temperature stays 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. No direct sun.
Line bottom with paper. Change it daily. Add perches of different sizes. Use wood or rope. This keeps feet healthy. Include swings and ladders.
What Do Parakeets Need in Their Cage?
- Food and water bowls: Place high to stay clean.
- Toys: Bells, mirrors, chews. Rotate every week.
- Cuttlebone: For calcium and beak trim.
- Mineral block: Helps digestion.
Give UVB light 10 to 12 hours a day. Or take outside in safe cage. Watch them always.
What to Feed Your Parakeet
Feed pellets as main food. They make 50 to 80 percent of diet. Add seeds for variety. Give fresh greens every other day. Try kale, spinach, or carrots. Fruits like apples or berries work too. No pits or seeds from fruit.
Offer hard-boiled egg or cheese sometimes. Millet spray as treat. Change water daily. Wash bowls to stop germs.
Foods to Avoid
- Avocado
- Chocolate
- Garlic
- Onions
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
Too many seeds cause fat buildup. This leads to liver problems. Check our Pet Food Safety Checker for more tips.
How to Groom Your Parakeet
Bathe them two to three times a week. Use mist from spray bottle. Or give shallow dish. Let them dry in warm spot.
Trim nails if too long. Vet can show how. Clip wings if needed. This stops escape. Feathers grow back.
Birds preen feathers daily. If they stop, see a vet.
Keep Your Parakeet Active and Happy
Let them out daily. One hour minimum. Close doors and windows. Cover mirrors.
Play with toys. Teach tricks like step up. Use treats. Talk to them. They learn words.
Pairs play together. Single birds need more owner time.
Parakeet Health and Vet Care
See an avian vet yearly. Bring stool sample. Watch for sick signs.
Signs of a Healthy Bird
- Bright eyes
- Smooth feathers
- Active play
- Good eating
When to Call a Vet
- Fluffed up
- Sneezing
- No eating
- Loose droppings
Common problems include breathing issues or vitamin lack. Use our Pet Symptom Checker if unsure.
For age questions, try the Pet Age Calculator.
How to Train Your Parakeet
Start with trust. Sit near cage. Offer finger as perch. Say “step up.” Reward with seed.
Move slow. No grabs. Young birds train easier.
Common Questions About Parakeet Care
How Do You Take Care of a Parakeet for Beginners?
Follow this guide. Start with right cage and food. Spend time daily.
Do Parakeets Need to Be in Pairs?
Not always. But they like company. One works if you interact a lot.
How Often Should I Clean the Cage?
Spot clean daily. Full clean weekly.
Can Parakeets Talk?
Yes. Males more often. Repeat words to them.
For breed info, take our Pet Breed Finder Quiz. Though for birds, adapt questions.
Parakeets bring joy. Good care keeps them well. Follow these steps for a happy bird.