Cockatiels and Parakeets: Complete Guide for Beginners in Pet Birds

Pet birds are incredibly popular around the world — and cockatiels and parakeets (budgies) are among the favorites! These intelligent, affectionate birds are full of personality and can become wonderful companions for years to come.

Why Choose a Bird as a Pet?

Birds make amazing pets for people who want companionship without needing large spaces. Cockatiels and parakeets, in particular, form strong bonds with their owners and can live many years by your side.

Understanding the Differences

Cockatiel

• Personality: Gentle, affectionate, loves head scratches
• Vocalization: Melodious whistles, males can learn to mimic sounds
• Socialization: Very attached to owners, needs daily attention
• Ideal for: Those who want a calmer, more interactive bird

Parakeet (Budgie)

• Personality: Active, curious, playful
• Vocalization: Chatty, can learn words
• Socialization: Prefers having a companion parakeet
• Ideal for: Those who enjoy energy and entertainment

The Ideal Cage

Minimum Size

A large cage is essential for your bird's wellbeing:

• Parakeets: Minimum 24" x 16" x 16"
• Cockatiels: Minimum 32" x 20" x 20"

Important tip: Bigger is always better! Birds fly horizontally, so prioritize width over height.

What the Cage Needs

• Natural wood perches — Different thicknesses to exercise feet
• Food and water dishes — Preferably stainless steel (more hygienic)
• Toys — Ladders, swings, bells, ropes
• Bird bath — Birds love bathing!

Placement

• Away from drafts and air conditioning
• Away from the kitchen (fumes are toxic to birds)
• In natural light, but not direct sunlight
• At eye level, where the family gathers

Proper Nutrition

Forget seed-only diets! A diet based only on millet and seeds causes serious nutritional deficiencies.

Balanced Diet

70% Pellets: The foundation of their diet. Choose quality species-specific pellets.

20% Vegetables and greens:

• Kale, broccoli, spinach
• Carrots, grated beets
• Bell peppers, zucchini

10% Fruits and seeds:

• Apple (no seeds), banana, papaya
• Seed mix as treats, not the main diet

Forbidden Foods

• Avocado (highly toxic!)
• Chocolate and coffee
• Onions and garlic
• Apple seeds and citrus seeds
• Salty or sugary foods

Fresh Water

Change water at least twice daily. Birds quickly dirty their water with food remnants.

Time Outside the Cage

Birds need free time to fly and explore. At least 1-2 hours daily outside the cage is essential.

Before Releasing Your Bird

• Close windows and doors
• Cover mirrors and glass (prevents collisions)
• Turn off ceiling fans
• Remove other pets from the room
• Remove toxic plants
• Watch out for open toilet lids!

Socialization and Interaction

Building Trust

1. First days: Let the bird adjust to its environment, just speak softly
2. Week 1-2: Offer treats through the cage bars
3. Week 3-4: Open the cage and offer treats from your hand
4. Gradually: Let the bird step onto your hand voluntarily

Never force contact. Patience is key.

Mental Enrichment

Birds are intelligent and need stimulation:

• Rotating toys (change weekly)
• Foraging: hide treats for the bird to find
• Clicker training
• Music and conversation

Signs of a Healthy Bird

• Bright, alert eyes
• Smooth, shiny feathers
• Clean, dry nostrils
• Regular appetite
• Active and curious
• Consistent droppings (green/brown with white part)

Warning Signs — See a Vet

• Fluffed feathers for extended periods
• Labored breathing or noises
• Nasal discharge
• Closed or swollen eyes
• Loss of appetite
• Watery or abnormally colored droppings
• Sudden lethargy or aggression

Important: Birds hide illness. When symptoms appear, the situation may be serious. Routine checkups with an avian veterinarian are essential.

Hygiene Care

Daily Cleaning

• Change water and food
• Remove droppings and food scraps
• Clean soiled perches

Weekly Cleaning

• Wash food and water dishes with hot water
• Clean the cage bottom
• Change cage liner

Monthly Cleaning

• Wash the entire cage with mild soap and water
• Let it dry completely in the sun
• Wash and rotate toys

One or Two Birds?

Parakeets

Parakeets are extremely social and suffer alone. Having two parakeets is highly recommended, especially if you spend a lot of time away from home.

Cockatiels

Cockatiels adapt well as single birds, as long as they receive lots of daily attention from their owner. If you can't dedicate hours each day, consider getting a pair.

Breeding: Caution

If you have a male and female together, breeding can happen. Raising birds requires knowledge and responsibility. If you don't want chicks:

• Avoid nests or enclosed spaces in the cage
• Don't offer overly nutritious foods in excess
• Maintain regular day/night lighting schedules
• Consult a vet about control methods

How Much Does It Cost?

Initial Costs

Monthly Costs

• Food and pellets: $20 - $40
• Occasional toys: $10 - $20
• Vet reserve: $20 - $40

Before Adopting

• Only buy from licensed breeders
• Avoid street markets and unlicensed sellers
• Trafficked birds are captured illegally and frequently die
• Consider adoption — many birds need new homes

A Companion for Life

Cockatiels and parakeets are incredible pets that bring joy, music, and companionship. With proper care, you'll have a friend for many years. Get ready for morning whistles, excited dances when you come home, and lots of affection.

Your new feathered friend is waiting for you!

Sources

• Association of Avian Veterinarians. "Pet Bird Care"
• ASPCA. "Bird Care"
• PetMD. "Cockatiel Care Guide"
• VCA Animal Hospitals. "Parakeet Care"