Having both a cat and pet birds in your home can be challenging, as cats are natural hunters and may stalk or try to pounce on pet birds. This poses a risky situation for pet birds. So how can you keep birds safe when you also have cats in the house? The key is finding a cat proof bird cage that will protect your feathered friends.
What makes a bird cage cat proof?
There are a few key features that make a bird cage cat proof:
- Closely spaced bars – Bars should be no more than 1/2 inch apart so a cat’s paw can’t reach inside the cage.
- Secure construction – A sturdy cage that cannot be tipped over or popped open by a cat.
- Latching doors – Cage doors should have secure latches that cats cannot open.
- Stable base – A wide, heavy base prevents tipping. Wheels should lock.
- Covered top – Prevents cats from climbing onto the cage from above.
Bird cages specifically marketed as cat proof will have these features to keep your birds protected.
What size cage will I need?
The size cage you need depends on:
- Number of birds – Get a cage big enough to house all your birds comfortably.
- Bird size – Make sure the cage dimensions suit the sizes of your bird species.
- Space for toys, perches, food/water – Allow room for essentials plus play space.
As a general guide for size:
- Small birds like finches: 18″ W x 18″ D x 18″ H per pair of birds
- Medium birds like parakeets: 24″ W x 16″ D x 20″ H per pair
- Large birds like cockatiels: 30″ W x 18″ D x 24″ H per pair
Go as big as possible to give your birds a spacious home.
Where should I place the cage?
Where you position a cat proof bird cage in your home matters:
- Away from windows/doors – Prevents cats from pressuring the cage from outside.
- Against a wall – Stabilizes on one side so harder to tip.
- Elevated stand – Puts cage out of a cat’s reach.
- Not in high traffic areas – Keeps disturbance and stress for birds low.
- Convenient for you – Allows for easy everyday access and maintenance.
A quiet corner of your living room or family room tends to work well.
What are the best cat proof bird cages?
Here are top recommended cat proof bird cages:
Cage | Key Features |
---|---|
Prevue Hendryx Cat and Critter Proof Cage | – 1/2″ bar spacing – 3 lockable doors – Large bottom shelf |
Mcage Extra Large Flight Cage | – 1/2″ bar spacing – Locking metal doors – Wide stable base |
Yaheetech Wrought Iron Large Flight Cage | – 1/2″ bar spacing – Mesh roof panels – Rolling caster wheels |
Petsfit Double Flight Cage | – 5/8″ bar spacing – Top and bottom lock– Removable tray |
Be sure to choose a size that suits your types of birds and number of pets. Read customer reviews to learn from real world use before selecting a model.
What modifications help make a cage cat proof?
For added cat-proofing, these modifications can make a cage more secure:
- Add acrylic sheeting around the outside to prevent paw access.
- Secure the cage to the wall or stand using L-brackets or s-hooks.
- Place a collar with bell on your cat so birds are alerted to kitty’s presence.
- Apply double sided sticky tape to surfaces around the cage to deter cat interest.
- Use a pet/baby gate to block cage access.
Simple DIY modifications like these provide extra protection and peace of mind.
What other precautions should I take?
In addition to a cat proof cage, take these added precautions:
- Supervise all interactions between cats and bird cage.
- Trim cats’ claws regularly to minimize harm if they swat at cage.
- Give cats their own spaces and enrichment to prevent cage obsession.
- Allow birds daily out of cage time in a cat free room.
- Place food, water, litter box attractants away from the bird cage area.
Avoid high risk situations like leaving birds unattended out of the cage in areas cats have access to.
How do I get my cat used to my bird cage?
To promote peaceful coexistence between your cat and caged birds:
- Set up the cage before bringing home birds so cat has time to investigate.
- Use treats and play to distract/reward cat away from the cage.
- Provide cat trees/perches near (but not on top of) the cage for acceptable access.
- Use deterrents like air spray or loud noises if cat is overly persistent.
- Allow supervised, limited interactions so the birds seem less intriguing.
With time, your cat will ideally become disinterested in the bird cage and leave your feathered pets alone.
Will keeping birds and cats together stress out my pets?
It’s understandable to be concerned about stress. However, with proper precautions, birds and cats can peacefully coexist without excessive anxiety:
- Ensure the cage setup offers birds adequate safety and seclusion.
- Provide enrichment and establish routines to minimize stress triggers.
- Monitor body language and behavior for signs of stress or fear.
- Allow both pets their own spaces to feel secure and relaxed.
- Consult your vet if stress becomes problematic.
While an adjustment period is expected, birds and cats sharing a home can become comfortable companions given time in most cases.
Conclusion
With a properly equipped cat proof bird cage, vigilant supervision, training and care, it is perfectly possible for cats and pet birds to live together happily and safely. Be sure to invest in a well-made cage designed specifically to deter cats. Strategically place the cage in your home and supplement with DIY deterrents. Provide cats with plenty of enrichment. With time and effort, your birds and cats can thrive in the same home.