Experience the Best of Roxy's Pet Shop

• Cage Size: Parrotlets may be small, but they are highly active and need plenty of room to fly and climb. A minimum cage size for one bird is 18 inches wide x 18 inches deep x 24 inches high. A larger cage is always better, especially if you plan to keep more than one.
• Bar Spacing: The bar spacing should be ½ inch to 5/8 inch to prevent the bird from escaping or getting stuck between the bars.
• Location: Place the cage in a quiet, safe area where the bird can observe the family but is not exposed to extreme temperatures or drafts. Keep the cage away from direct sunlight and any sources of heat like radiators.
• Perches: Offer a variety of natural wood perches to help keep their feet healthy and prevent boredom. Parrotlets enjoy climbing, so make sure there are horizontal perches and ladders as well.
• Toys & Enrichment: Parrotlets are playful and intelligent. Provide a variety of toys such as foraging toys, chewable wooden blocks, mirrors, and swings. Rotate toys regularly to prevent boredom and encourage mental stimulation.

• Fresh Fruits & Vegetables: Supplement their diet with fresh produce like apple slices, carrots, broccoli, kale, spinach, berries, and bell peppers. Offer a variety of fruits and veggies to ensure a balanced intake of vitamins and minerals. Avoid giving avocado, onions, or citrus fruits, as they can be toxic.
• Seeds: While seeds can be offered as an occasional treat, they should not make up more than 10-15% of the diet. Too many seeds can lead to obesity and malnutrition. Avoid seed mixes with sunflower seeds, as they are high in fat.
• Fresh Water: Always provide clean, fresh water, and change it daily to keep it free of bacteria.
• Calcium: Parrotlets need calcium to maintain bone health. Offer a cuttlebone or calcium block to supplement their diet.

• Companionship: Parrotlets are social birds and thrive on interaction with their human caregivers. They may bond closely with one person, though some can be friendly with everyone. If you're considering more than one parrotlet, they can live happily in pairs, but it may affect your bond with them.
• Training: Parrotlets are intelligent and can be trained, though they can also be a bit stubborn. Start training early with positive reinforcement (using treats and praise) to teach them tricks or basic commands. They can learn to step up, retrieve, and even mimic sounds, though they're not usually known for speaking like larger parrots.
• Out-of-Cage Time: Parrotlets need time out of their cage daily to explore and get exercise. Make sure the room is bird-proofed to avoid accidents. Always supervise them during out-of-cage time, as their small size can make them vulnerable to other pets or accidents.

• Feather Care: Parrotlets generally groom themselves well, but keep an eye out for any signs of feather problems like molting issues or broken feathers. A shallow dish of water or a light misting of water can help them keep their feathers in good condition.
• Nail & Beak Care: Parrotlets’ nails may need trimming occasionally. You can usually hear them click on hard surfaces when they need attention. Their beak may need to be checked regularly, but they generally wear it down naturally. If you notice overgrowth or irregularities, a vet visit is necessary.
• Bathing: Parrotlets enjoy occasional baths, so provide them with a shallow dish of water or lightly mist them with warm water. Keep the water clean and make sure the bird dries off afterward.
• Health Monitoring: Common health issues for parrotlets include respiratory infections, obesity, and egg-laying complications in females. Regularly check their droppings, appetite, and energy levels. If you see any changes, contact an avian vet.

• Nesting: If you plan to breed your parrotlets, provide a safe nesting box. The box should be about 8 inches deep, 8 inches wide, and 12 inches high with soft bedding such as shredded paper or hay.
• Egg Laying: Female parrotlets can lay eggs even without a mate. If you don’t intend to breed, provide enough calcium to avoid egg-binding (a condition where the bird cannot lay its egg). Remove eggs after a couple of weeks if they are not fertile.
• Chicks: Parrotlet chicks are typically easy for the parents to care for. However, if you plan to hand-feed, be prepared for the level of commitment that involves, including feeding every few hours.

• Feisty & Confident: Despite their small size, parrotlets are known for their bold, curious, and sometimes sassy personalities. They are very social and love to interact with their human caregivers. Some may even have a cheeky attitude or display territorial behavior.
• Vocalization: Parrotlets are generally quieter than larger parrots, but they can be quite vocal, especially in the morning or when they’re excited. They produce high-pitched whistles, chirps, and squawks. They are capable of mimicking some words, but are not prolific talkers.
• Bonding: Parrotlets tend to bond closely with their owners. They may enjoy sitting on your shoulder, being petted, or playing with you. However, they can sometimes be nippy if they feel threatened or overhandled. Socializing them early helps to reduce the risk of aggressive behaviors.

• Toxic Plants & Materials: Be aware of common houseplants that are toxic to birds, such as pothos, lilies, azaleas, and oleander. Avoid leaving harmful substances like non-stick cookware (which releases toxic fumes) around your bird.
• Other Pets: Keep an eye on interactions between parrotlets and other pets, especially cats and dogs. Parrotlets are small and can easily be injured if other pets are not supervised. Create safe spaces where your bird can retreat if they feel threatened.

Parrotlets are small but mighty birds that can make wonderful, affectionate pets with proper care. They are playful, intelligent, and social creatures that thrive in a stimulating and interactive environment. With the right diet, socialization, and attention to their health, your parrotlet will live a happy and fulfilling life as a beloved companion.

If you have concerns or questions about your parrotlet's health or behavior, consult an avian veterinarian for guidance.