Required Equipment Needed to Care for Your African Grey

African grey parrots are intelligent, responsive pets that require a great deal of care and attention. The basic equipment is fairly straightforward but you also need to commit time and be able to pay for emergency veterinary services. It is also advisable to remember that African greys can live for more than 70 years. If you are unsure what your domestic arrangements will be in even 10 or 20 years time, this might not be the pet for you. If you have decided to go ahead with adopting an African grey, obtain the necessary supplies first.

  1. Cage

    • Although African greys should not be kept in a cage continuously, they do need one. Purchase the largest cage possible. The bare minimum is 30 by 30 inches, assuming the bird will be allowed out for several hours a day. Perches need to be about 1 to 2 inches in diameter. A cage cover to provide a quiet, dark place at night if you have lights on in the room is a good idea.

    Food Supplies

    • African greys need a high quality pellet food specifically for them, to supplement with fruit and vegetables. The parrot also requires food and water bowls.

    Exercise Equipment

    • A simple wooden frame for the play area, which should be a room, helps to ensure the parrot gets enough exercise through climbing and makes it less likely he will damage furniture. These frames can be homemade and built from non-toxic wood such as apple wood, though they can also be found in a pet store.

    Toys

    • All pet birds need toys to keep them occupied, especially highly intelligent ones. Purchase a wide selection made from non-toxic wood or another safe material such as tough plastic, so there are enough to alternate regularly.

    Grooming tools

    • Pet nail clippers, a plant spray bottle and a birdbath are the basics for grooming a parrot. A dishpan works as a birdbath, but buy a new one and only use it for your parrot. Don't use the spray bottle for cleaning preparations or anything else other than water. As with all the parrot equipment, it is best to have a dedicated bottle.

    Other

    • A bird carrier to transport the parrot to the vet is also essential. Cleaning supplies such as sponges and buckets solely for the parrot prevent the transmission of infections from bird to human. Plain household bleach, rather than scented cleaners, is necessary.