Bird lovers should know understand how important it is to have the proper cage for their bird. Cages vary not only in their size, but also in a variety of other ways that should be considered while shopping for your pet bird.

For the bird, this cage will be its home where it will spend most of its time. As an animal owner it is your duty to provide your bird with a cage that will be comfortable for the bird, safe, and have a positive impact on the bird's mental health. Size of cage, appropriate spacing and thickness of the cage bars, and the structural material of the cage are all important factors that you need to consider.

The rule of thumb for cage sizes is bigger is better. The larger the cage, the more space, and freedom the bird has. Obviously not everyone has the budget or the space for a huge cage. However, a cage should be purchased that will be appropriate for the bird's size. For example a very small animal like a finch can have a significantly smaller cage than a large animal like a Macaw.

Once you have decided upon the bird cages size, the correct spacing between the bars as well as their thickness must be determined. Again, the size of the bird is what determines the appropriate spacing and thickness of bars in bird cages. If the spacing is too wide the risk of escape or getting the bird's head trapped in between the bars is greater. Spacing that is too small between the bars can lead to wings, beaks, or feet getting stuck and the bird being injured. Since the bars of cages are bitten by the birds, the larger the bird the thicker the bars. If the bars are not thick or strong enough, a larger bird is capable of bending the bars, which is a potential safety concern.

The material from which the cage is constructed is important. You want a cage that is going to last a long time. Mild steel powder coated cages can last between five and seven years with proper care. Stainless steel powder coated bird cages can last three times as long, but are more costly. Since it won't chip or break easily, 100% stainless steel is preferred by many folks. In addition, look for bird cages that have anti-rust properties. Some powder coated bird cages may have toxic levels of lead or zinc in the powder coating, so it is important to buy your cage from a reputable manufacturer.

You will need to clean our bird's enclosure frequently so you should consider before purchasing a cage the assembly of the cage and its bars. Drilled-through bars are sturdier and stronger than welded bars but are more difficult when cleaning the cage. A cage that is composed of many nuts and bolts may be more affordable, but is much harder to clean and assemble. You want to look for an enclosure that you can easily break down to cleaned.

As you search for the perfect enclosure you will see descriptions regarding dome bird cages and playtop bird cages. Consider your lifestyle when deciding between "dometop" cages and "playtop" cages. Although owners are advised to give their birds time out of their cage every day, it is not always possible. Dome bird cages offer additional space within the cage, without taking up more space in your home. Dometop bird cages are better for owners who do not let their bird(s) out to play every day. Playtop cages are popular with owners who give playtime to their birds outside the cage. Playtop bird cages will allow your pet to perch, play, and stretch their wings on the cage's highest point where they feel safer. The external play areas offer various "play" features depending upon the model.

Now that you know what to look for when searching for bird cages go to americas-pet-store.com where you will find a large selection of a variety of bird cages made by the top bird cages manufacturers. In addition, you can use their chart to match your bird type to the recommended bar spacing, bar thickness and cage size minimums for your bird, making your shopping experience a whole lot easier. And, every item americas-pet-store.com sells includes free shipping.