Your Ultimate Guide to Parakeet Care
Unlock the secrets to a happy and healthy life for your feathered friend. Explore our interactive tips below!
Diet & Nutrition
A balanced diet is crucial for a vibrant parakeet. Move beyond a simple seed mix to ensure they receive all essential nutrients.
- Pellets First: High-quality pellets should make up 60-70% of their diet.
- Fresh Veggies: Offer chopped dark leafy greens, carrots, and broccoli daily.
- Fruit as a Treat: Apples (no seeds), bananas, and berries are great in moderation.
- Clean Water: Always provide fresh, clean water. Change it daily!
Did You Know? In the wild, parakeets (Budgerigars) forage for a variety of seeds, grasses, and plants, which is why a diverse diet is so important in captivity.See Full Diet Plan
Habitat & Setup
Their cage is their castle. Make it a safe, spacious, and stimulating environment for them to thrive in.
- Go Big: The wider the cage, the better. Horizontal space is more important than height for flight.
- Vary Perches: Use natural wood perches of different diameters to exercise their feet.
- Toy Rotation: Keep 3-4 toys in the cage and rotate them weekly to prevent boredom.
- Prime Location: Place the cage in a social room but away from drafts or direct sunlight.
Watch Our Ideal Cage Setup Tour!
Health & Wellness
Knowing the signs of a healthy bird and potential illness can help you act quickly if a problem arises.
- Clear Eyes & Nostrils: A healthy parakeet has bright, clear eyes and clean nares (nostrils).
- Smooth Feathers: Feathers should be smooth and well-kept, not constantly fluffed or ragged.
- Active & Alert: Watch for consistent energy levels. Lethargy can be a sign of illness.
- Annual Vet Visit: Schedule a yearly check-up with an avian veterinarian for preventative care.
Red Flag! If your parakeet is sitting at the bottom of the cage, has difficulty breathing, or shows a sudden change in droppings, contact an avian vet immediately.
Find an Avian Vet

Socialization & Play
Parakeets are incredibly social birds. Daily interaction is key to a strong bond and a happy, well-adjusted pet.
- Daily Chats: Talk to your parakeet in a calm, gentle voice every day.
- Taming Time: Use millet spray as a treat to encourage them to step onto your hand. Patience is key!
- Supervised Freedom: Allow for at least one hour of supervised out-of-cage time in a bird-safe room.
- Play Music: Many parakeets enjoy listening to music or the radio when you’re away.
Discover Training Games