Building Parrot Travel Carrier For Truman

[Michael]

Building Parrot Travel Carrier For Truman

I bought a new carrier for Truman and this is about how I modified an ordinary cat carrier to be suitable for a parrot.

[Rue]

We've done the same thing. Although that's the carrier I use the least...

If you do use the converted cat carrier a lot, I suggest adding metal washers to both sides of each hole you drilled. It will save the plastic from cracking as soon, since it absorbs the bit of banging that will happen (and it does happen, even if you don't notice it).

If you only use the carrier for trips to the vet or odd emergencies, you can get by without the added reinforcement of the washers.

[Michael]

I used washers for the food bowl and perch. I did not use washers for the additional clips I added. I travel with my parrots but not regularly enough to put heavy wear on the carriers. I have had Kili living out of her carrier for up to 3 days straight some times.

[ginger]

I have the exact same model of carrier for my birds. I chose it for all the same reasons you mentioned. My birds really like it. I love the modifications that you've made, and I will do that to mine too. I usually just throw an old towel in the bottom, but the addition of the perch makes much more sense. For those that may not think it is necessary to do the extra zip ties . . . believe me it is! I have had the unfortunate experience of having the bottom of my carrier fall out and my bird along with it. It was in the parking lot of my Vet's office. I was very fortunate that Ozzy wasn't capable of flying at the time. Whew! What a scarey moment that was for Ozzy and for me. That was an economy carrier that I quickly replaced with this model. BTW . . . Nice workshop Michael.

[Michael]

Thanks! I think the perch is an absolutely necessary addition. Otherwise the parrot is flung around inside the carrier and has nothing to grip on but worse yet keeps stepping in its own poop. Zip ties are necessary for keeping the carrier from coming apart whether your parrot is flighted or not. But for a flighted parrot I really suggest adding a second clip to each door (or zip tying temporarily) to prevent the door from flying open in the event the carrier is bumped or dropped. But with some parrot friendly modifications, this is a wonderful carrier and can be used as a home away from home.

[k9shrink]

Hi Michael,

The carrier looks great!

Sharon

[bmsweb]

I like the idea of the top load cage. I might have to hunt around for one of these carriers. Nice work Michael

[Rue]

Sharon: VERY cool! I'm impressed! Both by taking Clover camping and with the 'fanny pack'.

I have a regular Celltei pack. Personally, I like it...but the birds don't. They prefer the Avian Adventure backpack. And even though I think it's ugly...I have to admit it works the best. All three of them don't mind it...

[el-parrot]

Building Parrot Travel Carrier For Truman

I bought a new carrier for Truman and this is about how I modified an ordinary cat carrier to be suitable for a parrot.

wow.. 'greyt' job!!! I have this one


Yours is better I think, because they don't see everything when you travel.

[Michael]

Yeah, I don't think the parrot should be so exposed on all sides. I like to give them a balance of visibility and hiding. That way they can look around but feel reasonably secure.