KayJordan
A bird perch is one of the elements that you simply cannot forget to put in your bird’s cage. A cage needs perches and bird toys in order to keep your pet happy and healthy. Every pet, whether we are talking about a bird or a dog, needs a place that allows them to engage in natural behaviours. The perches provide a place to rest, but it also encourages jumping and climbing. This article discusses some of the different types of perches available, looking into their pros, cons, and other details.
Natural Wood Bird Perch
As we just mentioned, one of the goals when decorating your bird’s cage is to think of its natural habitat, which is exactly why we will begin by talking about wood perches. The most important detail is that these replicate the real tree branches your bird would find in the wild. When you provide wood perches, they will be in different shapes and sizes compared to artificial perches, which means that your bird will have to constantly change its grip and use its muscles, which is always a good thing. Natural perches are made out of non-toxic wood, as your bird will most likely chew on it too. The most commonly used types are:
- Grapevine
- Fruitwood
- Coffee wood
Now, of course, that wood is always an amazing option, as it is the natural one. It will help maintain foot health and trim the beak and nails. The rough and natural texture acts like a gentle file, which can be considered a big pro. Moreover, the zero chemical risk is something that should be taken into account. As for cons, real wood is way harder to clean, as it’s more porous. Another con is the fact that wood will wear out quicker, so it will be more expensive long-term.
Are Rope Perches Beneficial?
Rope is one of those things that often gets counted as bird toys rather than an actual perch, and the truth is somewhere in between these two ideas. Ropes provide a flexible and comfortable option for your pet, thanks to the soft texture. The rope doesn’t put as much pressure on the bird’s legs as wood does, therefore being a good fit for older birds. Most ropes will have an internal wire, which allows you to bend and loop them in various ways, adding variety to the space.
As with anything, there are a few cons that it’s important to be aware of. The first and most important one is the fact that chewing on fabric can cause them to swallow it and suffer from indigestion or other digestive issues. Loose threads can get caught in the bird’s beak or legs and cause injuries. Last but not least, rope is also porous, which means that the cleaning process is complicated; often needing to simply replace the rope with a new one.
Should You Choose Platform Perches?
Bird perches come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and platforms are one of them. A platform bird perch is the one that provide a flat surface where your bird can rest. After climbing and jumping all day, your pet needs foot relief. Platforms are an amazing option for disabled or senior birds. Many pet owners opt for a combination of a classical perch and a platform, to maximize the spaces the bird can use. Depending on the age and activity level of your pet, you will need more or less bird toys, space and perches. There is not one-size-fits-all when we are talking about pets. You need to find the option that works best in your scenario.
Now, one of the main cons of platforms is that debris will quickly gather. It’s best to clean it daily to ensure a sanitized space for your bird, which can be quite tiring for some people. Many platforms are not exactly made for chewing, but your bird will chew it anyway, which can expose parts that are not safe for birds. If the cage is small, a platform will occupy most of the space, which is not something you want. And your bird might prefer to just relax, rather than exercise; and exercise is something that needs to be encouraged.
What Is a Swing Bird Perch?
A swing bird perch is one of the creative options that combine perches with bird toys. This option encourages both physical exercise and mental stimulation. The moving element is what will keep your pet curious and active. The balance training builds foot strength, and for some extra fun, you can add some bird toys with bells and beads. Every element that you put in your pet’s cage must have a purpose; it should either provide exercise opportunities or ensure that your bird is having as much fun as possible.
As for the cons, the most obvious one is the bird getting sick from all the swinging. If your bird is older or gets sick easily, this might not be such a good option. The danger of unsafe materials for birds is present here too. Before buying anything, check the material, because you need to assume that your bird will chew everything in the cage. As a little tip, if you opt for a swing perch, do not place it too close to the water or food bowl, as it often leads to a mess.
Conclusion
When you have a pet, it’s essential to understand the options available on the market when it comes to toys, food, and all the other supplies you need. When it comes to perches, many bird owners don’t give much thought to the choice and just purchase the first thing they see. But you should consider your bird’s age, activity level, chewing and illness predisposition. And, even if it might seem crazy, many stores sell things made out of materials that are not safe for your pet. So, always check the material before buying. Now, remember, you have four main types of perches: natural wood, rope, platform and swinging ones. Choose the best one for your bird!