Argument for a bigger cage?

[Titanius]

I know shudder. I've finally gotten my mom to listen to me about getting a larger cage for my birds. Since it's nearing my birthday and I'm feeling a little lucky. She's fine with a new cage but. She says the one I want is too large. I died a little inside when she said that. I have the space.. the cage is priced more affordable than the one's I've seen. Does anyone have any facts that could help down pat my argument?

[sidech]

Just tell her that you've done your research, and that all experts agree, you should always buy the biggest cage you can afford for your bird. Birds are extremely sensitive animals, and they need a space that is big enough to have all the entertainment needed included, plus enough space to move around and flip their wings easily. The bigger the cage, the less your bird is enclined to have psychological problems (that is if you take good care of him of course). A bigger cage will let you put more toys in, so your bird can happily occupy himself when you're not around.

Also, if you buy big enough, you won't have to change it again.

Try that.

[Rrrma]

Tell her you want to build an obstacle course inside it and train your bird how to do tricks

[Azure Hanyo]

Tell her that when the birds get lonely, you would like to be able to climb inside...

Just kidding obviously. I agree with sidech; bigger cages make for happier birds. I just got a larger cage for my cockatiel, and he was happy before- but you should see him now! He climbs all over the place, has tons of fun new toys I couldn't fit into his other one, and gets to forage for food like never before and likes to fly back and forth from one side to the other. If your mom doesn't want to pay the money for a new cage, see if you can try craigslist or yard-sales. You can sometimes get lucky!

Good luck trying to convince her. Parents can be so stubborn. (I should know 'cause I am one.)

[Rue]

Tell her a new cage will be more attractive AND easier to clean...

...who can resist that???

[Michael]

Just don't forget the bar spacing. Sometimes going too big on a cage involves larger bar spacing which can be dangerous. For Cockatiels I believe 1/2" is appropriate?

[Rue]

Just don't forget the bar spacing. Sometimes going too big on a cage involves larger bar spacing which can be dangerous. For Cockatiels I believe 1/2" is appropriate?

We should have a sticky for appropriate spacing...I always forget them too...

[Michael]

Who feels like doing some research and writing one?

[Rue]

I can do that. But I might not be able to get it done today.

[Rrrma]

I designate you Michael!!! nah, just kidding

I agree we need a sticky though, maybe one that combines appropriate bar spacing with minimum cage requirement. Like a cockatiel should have bar spacing of 1/2" and a minimum cage size of 18x18" etc.
Though this site has a little chart that says 1/2-5/8" and 20x20" for a cockatiel...http://exoticpets.about.com/od/cagesper ... esizes.htm

ETA: Take your time Rue!