What Are the Pros and Cons of Keeping a Pet Parrot?

There are both pros and cons of keeping a parrot as a pet. The main pros of choosing this bird for a pet include the joy a pet owner may feel when watching and interacting with the bird. Many people also appreciate the fact that there are various types of birds from which a person can choose. This means a person can select a bird based on his coloring, size, and temperament preferences. Primary cons often include the amount of care these birds need and the expenses involved with keeping them.

Among the pros of keeping a parrot as a pet is the fact that it can bring its owners a good deal of joy. For individuals who love birds, they can be fun to watch and listen to, and can provide company for someone who lives alone. Unlike some other pets, they do not require the pet owner to venture out in the cold; while a person must usually spend a great deal of time walking a pet dog, for instance, his care of a pet parrot can take place inside his home.

Another pro of choosing a parrot for a pet is that there are so many different types from which a person may choose. For example, an individual could choose a bird based on its talking ability, if that was his main concern, or select a bird based on its adaptability. If gentleness is an aspiring pet owner's main concern, he can choose a breed known for being gentle. Likewise, a person can choose a breed of parrot that gets along well with new people and adjusts well to new environments, or one that is smaller than others and doesn't require as large of a cage or as much space.

One of the main cons of having a pet parrot is the fact that they require a significant amount of care. They need a proper environment, a reasonably clean cage, and the opportunity to get out of the cage to play and exercise. Many bird care experts assert that a person should not purchase a parrot for a pet unless he can spend a couple of hours each day with the bird out of its cage under supervision.

Costs are also among the cons of keeping a pet parrot. Some parrots cost a great deal of money, and many types require large cages and numerous accessories. Nutritional costs may also represent a significant expense. Additionally, a pet owner may need to keep money on hand to pay for veterinary care on an as-needed basis.

Parrots are known for their vibrant personalities and intelligence, which can provide endless entertainment and companionship. They have the ability to mimic human speech, creating a unique bond with their owners. Parrots are also long-lived, with some species like macaws living up to 50 years or more, offering a long-term companionship.

Parrots require a significant amount of time and attention, as they are social creatures that can develop behavioral issues if neglected. They need a varied diet, mental stimulation, and regular interaction. Additionally, parrots can be loud and messy, and their strong beaks can cause damage if they are not properly trained and supervised.

Keeping a pet parrot can be quite costly. Initial expenses include a sturdy cage, toys, and accessories. Ongoing costs cover a balanced diet, veterinary care, and replacing toys and perches to keep the bird stimulated. According to the PDSA, annual costs for smaller parrots can exceed $100, while larger parrots may incur higher expenses due to their specific needs.

Parrots are highly intelligent and can be trained, but it requires patience and consistency. They can learn a variety of tricks and commands, as well as mimic words and phrases. Positive reinforcement techniques work best. However, training success varies by individual bird and species, with some parrots being more receptive to training than others.

Parrots can be good family pets if both the children and the parrot are taught how to interact safely and respectfully. However, parrots have powerful beaks that can cause injury if they feel threatened. It's crucial to supervise interactions and educate children on proper handling to ensure a safe environment for everyone involved.

Potential parrot owners should consider the bird's lifespan, requiring a long-term commitment. They should also assess their ability to provide daily interaction, a suitable environment, and financial resources for care. Additionally, considering the noise level and potential for destructive behavior is important, as is the readiness to handle these challenges responsibly.