Why You Should Get a Cage Before Adopting an Amazon Parrot

Getting a cage before adopting an Amazon parrot gives you time to check the enclosure, choose its location and prepare a usable home before arrival. It also makes the true setup cost visible before you commit to the bird. A delivery delay or missing cage part is much easier to handle while the bird remains with its current caregiver.

Choose the cage for the individual Amazon

Amazon parrots vary in size, and a product labelled “parrot cage” may not provide appropriate space or bar spacing. Measure the internal enclosure rather than including a stand, seed skirt or decorative roof. Consider how much room remains after bowls, perches and toys are installed.

The Merck Veterinary Manual cage table lists 40 × 30 × 60 inches for African Greys, Amazons and small cockatoos, with approximately three-quarter-inch bar spacing. Treat this as a reference point to discuss with an avian professional; the actual bird, construction and exercise arrangements still matter. Larger suitable housing offers more room to arrange activities.

Assembly checks need time

Unpack and assemble the cage before scheduling arrival. Check doors, latches, welds, bowl fittings, trays and fasteners. Look for damage, sharp areas, rust or deteriorating coatings. Confirm cleaning instructions and material information with the supplier. If something is unsuitable, arrange a replacement before using the enclosure.

Plan the location and interior

Choose a place where the bird can participate in household life while also resting undisturbed. Keep it away from cooking fumes, smoke and other airborne hazards. Think through access for cleaning, space around the doors and the presence of other animals.

Arrange suitable perches and accessible food and water bowls without crowding the cage. Leave clear movement routes and avoid placing perches where droppings will routinely fall into bowls. HARI’s Amazon parrot profile provides additional housing background. Discuss individual mobility or accessibility needs before finalising the arrangement.

A prepared cage supports an organised handover

Ask the current caregiver about familiar perches, feeding locations and routines. Have the bird’s current food ready and avoid making several unnecessary changes at once. A secure travel carrier is also needed; it serves a different purpose from the everyday enclosure.

• Cage assembled, inspected and ready to use.
• Bowls, suitable perches and a simple initial activity setup installed.
• Familiar food and cleaning supplies available.
• Safe room and carrier prepared.
• Veterinary contact and handover instructions recorded.

Prepare first, then confirm the bird

Browse our cages and stands and Amazon parrot listings, checking actual specifications and availability before ordering. Our new-cage adjustment guide can help with the next stage. Preparing early lets you spend arrival day observing the bird and following its familiar routine.