Finches are popular pet birds that are known for their lively personalities and beautiful plumage. When keeping finches, it’s important to house them in a suitable cage that meets their needs. The right finch cage will provide enough space for them to fly around, opportunities for mental stimulation, and proper ventilation. This article will explore the key factors to consider when choosing a finch cage so you can ensure your birds live in a healthy and enriched environment.
Cage Size
One of the most important factors when selecting a finch cage is providing adequate space. Finches are active birds that love to fly, so the more room you can provide, the better. As a general rule, the minimum cage size for a pair of finches is 18″ x 18″ x 18″. For each additional finch, the cage should be larger. Shoot for a cage that is wider than it is tall since finches like to fly back and forth more than up and down. More space will allow them to get sufficient exercise.
Some specific cage size guidelines based on number of finches:
- 2 finches: 18″ x 18″ x 18″
- 3-4 finches: 20″ x 20″ x 20″
- 5-6 finches: 24″ x 18″ x 24″
- 7-10 finches: 30″ x 18″ x 30″
You can also provide extra flight space by attaching an aviary onto the cage. This allows the finches access to an expanded area while still having the security of their main cage.
Bar Spacing
When shopping for a finch cage, pay close attention to the distance between the bars. Bar spacing that is too wide allows small finches to squeeze through and escape. Very narrow bar spacing doesn’t allow enough room for climbing and clinging with their feet.
The optimal bar spacing for finches is between 1/2″ and 3/4″. This prevents escapes while still giving them enough room to get a good grip on the bars. Some pet stores sell cages marketed specifically for finches that have appropriate bar spacing. But always double check the specifications before purchasing.
Horizontal Bars
Look for a cage with plenty of horizontal bars for your finches to perch on. Finches like to perch across the width of the cage rather than just up and down the sides. Having bars that run front to back as well as side to side allows them to fly back and forth and utilize all areas of the cage. There should be sufficient perching space for all the finches in the cage to perch at the same time.
Natural wood perches are best since they are gentle on the birds’ feet. Be sure to also include perches of varying widths and textures to exercise their feet. Concrete perches can help file down overgrown claws.
Easy Access
Cleaning and accessing the finches should be easy with the cage you select. Look for large doors that provide full access to the inside of the cage. Some have double doors that you can open from the top, front, or side. Perches and food cups should also be simple to remove and replace through the doors. Easy access makes routine cleaning less of a hassle.
Fittings and Accessories
Once you have a suitable cage size and design, look for models that come equipped with helpful fittings and accessories:
- Feeders – Look for cages with built-in food cups or feeder doors to add external feeders
- Waterers – Integrated water cups are ideal, but you can also use bowls or bottle dispensers
- Perches – Natural wood perches should be provided
- Toys – Look for attached mirrors, ladders, swinging perches, and bells
- Shelves or boxes – Finches enjoy cozy nooks for resting and nesting
- Drawers – Built-in drawers allow storage for food, toys, and supplies
Remove and thoroughly clean all cage accessories once a week along with the main cage to prevent harmful bacteria from accumulating.
Placement
Take the location of the cage into account when choosing the ideal finch cage. Here are some placement tips:
- Away from drafts – Avoid drafty windows, air vents, and exterior doors.
- At an appropriate height – Place the cage at eye level so you can easily interact with your finches.
- Near social areas – So the finches feel part of the household action.
- Access to natural light – Finches need exposure to daylight for a healthy circadian rhythm.
- A quiet area – Away from loud televisions, radios, or commotion.
Durability
Finch cages should be constructed from sturdy, durable materials that won’t easily break from finch activity or cleaning. Powder coated metal cages provide secure confinement and enable easy cleaning. Avoid cages with loose parts or those made entirely of plastic or wood, which allow easier access between bars.
The cage should have a sturdy base that keeps all the components firmly together. Check that fittings are securely fastened so there are no loose parts or gaps where finches could become trapped or injure themselves.
Safety
Of course, safety is also an essential consideration when housing finches.
Be sure to:
- Avoid lead, zinc, or toxic metals
- Ensure a secure door latch
- Have no sharp protrusions or gaps
- Select smooth, rounded perches rather than abrasive dowels
- Use non-toxic bird-safe paint
- Never place the cage in direct sunlight, which could overheat birds
Thoroughly research any cage for safety issues before purchasing.
Cleaning
Look for cages that are easy to clean and resistant to bacteria build up. Powder coated and stainless steel cages are simple to sanitize thoroughly. All accessories should also be removable for cleaning and disinfecting.
Be prepared to wash the cage interior and accessories about once a week using soap and water to remove droppings, uneaten food, and other debris. Then disinfect using a bird-safe disinfectant. Rinse thoroughly and allow all parts to fully dry before reintroducing finches.
Brands
There are many reputable finch cage brands on the market that offer well-constructed cages. Some top options include:
- Prevue Pet Products
- A&E Cage
- MidWest Homes for Pets
- Mcage
- YAHEETECH
- PawHut
- Caitec
- Prevue Hendryx
When comparing different brands, look at factors like size, bar spacing, materials, accessories, and overall construction quality. Read reviews from other finch owners to help guide your decision.
Cage Style
Finch cages come in a variety of styles, so you can select one that fits your preferences and décor. Here are some common cage styles to consider:
- Dome top cage: Round cage with a domed roof, providing lots of interior space in a compact footprint.
- Rectangular cage: Traditional rectangular design, available in many sizes to fit multiple birds.
- Flight cage: Tall cage with a long profile to allow for extended flights.
- Aviary: Larger walk-in cage that allows free flight.
Cost
Finch cages range in price from $50 on the lower end to $250 or more for large deluxe cages. Here are some factors that affect the cost:
- Size – Larger cages come at a higher price.
- Materials – Stainless steel is more expensive than powder coated wire.
- Accessories – Models with more built-in accessories are pricier.
- Brand name – Premium brands can boost the cost.
- Style – Flight cages and aviaries often have higher price tags.
Consider how much use you will get from the cage when establishing your budget. This is a long term investment that should last for many years with proper care.
DIY Cages
Some finch owners opt to build their own custom cages to get the exact size and design they want. This takes some handy skills, but allows total control over materials and layout. If you want to take the DIY route, be sure to:
- Use non-toxic, bird safe materials
- Select appropriate bar spacing
- Include plenty of access doors for cleaning
- Incorporate accessories like perches, shelves, and feeders
- Check for sharp edges, loose parts, or hazards
- Seal any unfinished wood
Custom cages can allow very large flight spaces for avid finch keepers. Just be sure to do ample research to meet all of your finches’ needs through the design.
Used Cages
It’s also possible to find a quality used finch cage through resale sites, classified ads, or bird enthusiast groups. This can save money over buying new. When shopping for a pre-owned cage, inspect it closely for:
- Rust, chipped paint, or corrosion
- Missing or broken parts
- Bar spacing wider than 3/4″
- Doors that securely latch
- Sharp edges
- Damage that allows escape
A thorough scrub down and disinfecting is a must before housing new finches inside any used cage.
Minimum Requirements
If selecting a simple, budget-friendly cage, be sure it meets these minimum requirements for finches:
- At least 18″ x 18″ x 18″ for 2 birds
- 1/2″ – 3/4″ bar spacing
- Horizontal bars for perching
- Accessible food and water cups
- Securely latching doors
- Removable clear plastic tray
This provides adequate space, safety, and convenience for the basic needs of a pair of finches.
Nesting Box
In addition to a main cage, breeding finches will require a next box to lay eggs and raise babies. Look for a nesting box that attaches securely to the cage wires and has a side entry hole. Make sure the entry is an appropriate size for finches. The box should allow you to access, clean, and monitor the nest as needed.
Outdoor Housing
Finches can be housed in outdoor aviaries or flights as well. This provides them with plenty of space, fresh air, and natural lighting. But outdoor housing also exposes birds to predators, fluctuating temperatures, and other risks. If keeping finches outside, be sure the enclosure has:
- A covered area to escape weather
- Double layer mesh walls to prevent bites from predators
- Camouflage from view from above
- Locked gates, roof, and doors
- Protection from pest infestations
Carefully monitor outdoor finches for signs of distress from heat, cold, dampness, or drafts and bring them indoors immediately if needed.
Multiple Cages
Avid finch keepers sometimes house the males and females in separate cages out of breeding season. This ensures each bird gets adequate food and water access. If housing finches in multiple enclosures, be sure to interact with each cage’s residents daily so they don’t become isolated.
Quarantine Housing
It’s a good idea to have a special quarantine cage ready for any new finches or birds who show signs of illness. Keep this cage in a separate room away from your main finch enclosure. Use it to isolate newcomers for a 30-60 day quarantine period and watch for signs of disease before introducing them into your flock.
Travel Cages
You will need a smaller portable cage when transporting your finches, such as to the vet or for exhibiting. Look for a sturdy travel cage designed specifically for finches or other small songbirds. It should have perches, dishes that won’t tip over, and adequate ventilation.
Only keep finches in transport cages for the minimum time necessary. Bring along food and water and monitor them closely until back in their home cage.
Disinfecting
To keep your finch cage hygienic, disinfect it between each use, about once a week. Remove all birds, accessories, and debris and wash with soap and water. Rinse, then spray down all interior and exterior surfaces with avian-safe disinfectant solution. Allow to sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly to remove residue. Let all parts dry completely in the sun before rebuilding the freshly sanitized cage.
Conclusion
From size specifications to placement tips, choosing an appropriate cage is one of the most important decisions when preparing for pet finches. Selecting the right enclosure will help ensure your lively songbirds stay happy and healthy. Be sure to consider your specific finch needs and housing situation before committing to a cage. With a safe, roomy cage and proper accessories, your finches will bring joyful energy to your home for years to come.