Do you ever observe wild birds? You’ll notice that they’re constantly perching on and moving between various branches. Choosing the right perches for Polly is very important! A Las Vegas, NV vet discusses perches below.

Built-Ins

Many birdcages come with built-in perches. These should be considered starter perches, or something to use while you run to the pet store for more. Polly really needs several different perches. Our feathered friends use perches for sleeping, grooming themselves, socializing, playing, and eating. Their feet have adapted to gripping branches of all sizes and textures.

Material

Polly should have some perches that are made of natural materials, and some that are synthetic. That variety is important for keeping her legs and feet healthy and strong. Rougher materials, such as manzanita, can be good for birds’ feet, as they can help slough off dead skin. However, avoid sandpaper and concrete perches: they can actually cause foot injuries. Ask your vet for recommendations.

Purpose

Different perches serve different purposes. A shower perch may be a great option for birds that enjoy showers, while a corner perch may become Polly’s favorite sleeping spot. A rope toy, on the other hand, can be fun for playing. We generally recommend mixing and matching. For more ideas on keeping your feathered friend engaged, check out our guide on entertaining your parrot.

Size

Polly will need perches of a few different sizes. However, these will need to be within the correct range. A finch could get hurt using a perch that was meant for a cockatiel! In general, Polly’s feet should go about 2/3 to 3/4 of the way around the perch, which should be at least as long as her wingspan. If you aren’t sure what size to get, ask your vet.

Placing

Location is also important. Don’t put Polly’s perches over her bowls, as her food and water will quickly be contaminated by droppings. Also, make sure your feathered pal’s wings or tail won’t touch the cage walls or roof when she’s perching. We recommend putting perches at different heights, so your colorful pet can enjoy several different vantage points.

Cleaning

You’ll need to thoroughly clean and disinfect your winged buddy’s perches every week. (Tip: this is something you can do during your weekly cage cleanings.) Don’t put things back the same way: changing and rearranging the perches will keep things fresh and fun.

Our Advice on Bird Perches in 2025

Why is it crucial to provide a variety of perches for pet birds?

Providing a variety of perches for pet birds is crucial for their physical and mental well-being. Different perch types and sizes help maintain foot health by encouraging natural foot movements and reducing the risk of sores or arthritis. Varied textures and diameters exercise their feet, promoting better circulation and strength. Additionally, diverse perches mimic a bird’s natural environment, offering mental stimulation and reducing boredom. This variety also allows birds to exhibit natural behaviors like climbing and perching at different heights, which is crucial for their overall happiness and health.

What types of materials should be avoided in bird perches?

Avoid materials like sandpaper and concrete in bird perches, as they can cause foot injuries and irritation. Also, avoid treated wood or synthetic materials that might release harmful chemicals or fumes. Perches with sharp edges, splinters, or loose parts that can be ingested or entangled by the bird’s feet or claws should also be avoided. It’s essential to select perches made from safe, natural, and non-toxic materials to ensure the bird’s health and safety.

What guidelines should be followed when selecting the size of a bird’s perch?

When selecting the size of a bird’s perch, ensure that the bird’s feet wrap about two-thirds to three-quarters of the way around the perch. The perch should also be at least as long as the bird’s wingspan to allow comfortable movement. Avoid too small or too large perches, as they can cause foot strain or discomfort. Providing perches of different diameters is crucial for maintaining the health of a bird’s foot. This diversity allows the bird to alter its grip, exercising various foot muscles, which aids in preventing arthritis and other foot-related problems.

Why is it essential to avoid placing perches over food and water bowls?

Avoiding the placement of perches directly over food and water bowls in a bird’s cage is essential to prevent contamination. Birds often defecate from their perches, so if a perch is located above these bowls, there’s a high risk of droppings falling into the bird’s food and water. This can lead to the spread of bacteria and parasites, potentially causing health issues for the bird. Keeping the eating and drinking area clean and hygienic is crucial for maintaining the bird’s overall health and well-being.

How often should bird perches be cleaned, and why is changing their arrangement beneficial?

Bird perches should be cleaned thoroughly at least once a week to prevent the buildup of droppings and dirt, which can harbor harmful bacteria and parasites. Regular cleaning ensures a hygienic environment, which is crucial for the bird’s health. Changing the arrangement of the perches is beneficial as it provides mental stimulation, helping to prevent boredom. It encourages the bird to explore and adapt to new surroundings, mimicking the ever-changing environment in the wild. This variety in their living space keeps them engaged, active, and mentally healthy.

While proper perch selection is crucial for your bird’s health, it’s just one aspect of exotic pet care. For comprehensive care tailored to your feathered friend’s unique needs, consider our Exotic Pet Care services. Our experienced team can provide expert guidance on all aspects of bird care, from nutrition to environmental enrichment.

Do you have questions about bird care? Contact us, your Las Vegas, NV animal clinic, today!