Parrots are beautiful, intelligent, and social creatures, making them highly appealing as pets. Many people fall in love with them at pet shops or through social media, captivated by their vibrant feathers, playful antics, and ability to talk. However, unlike dogs or cats, parrots have highly specialised needs and are far from being a low-maintenance pet.
Before bringing a parrot into your home, it’s essential to understand the long-term commitment involved. Parrots can live for decades, require daily mental stimulation, and have unique care needs that many first-time owners underestimate.
To determine whether a parrot is truly the right pet for you, ask yourself these 10 important questions.
Ask Yourself These 10 Questions Before Getting a Parrot
Can you commit to a pet that may live for as many as 15 years (for smaller parrots) or 50 years (for larger parrots)?
Parrots are one of the longest-living pet species. Before getting one, consider how your life may change over the years—going to university, serving in National Service, moving overseas for work or studies, or starting a family. A parrot is a lifelong responsibility, not just a temporary companion.
Are you financially prepared for vet bills, food, and enrichment?
Parrots require regular check-ups with an avian vet, which can be expensive. In addition, they need high-quality food, a spacious cage, and plenty of enrichment toys to prevent boredom. Can you comfortably afford these costs for years to come?
Do you have enough time to socialise, train, and interact with your parrot daily?
Parrots are highly intelligent and social creatures that require daily interaction. They are not like small pets that can be left alone in a cage all day. A neglected parrot may develop behavioural issues, including feather plucking, screaming, or biting.
Is your home parrot-friendly?
Many common household items are dangerous for parrots. Do you have non-stick cookware (which releases toxic fumes when heated)? Do you use strong air fresheners, scented candles, or essential oils? Are there toxic plants in your home? If your home isn’t safe for a parrot, are you willing to make changes?
Are you ready for loud vocalisations?
Parrots communicate through sound—some whistle, some chatter, and some scream! While smaller species like budgies and lovebirds are relatively quiet, larger parrots such as cockatoos and macaws can be extremely loud. If noise is an issue in your household, a parrot might not be the best choice.
Are you prepared for the mess?
Parrots throw food, shed feathers, chew on furniture, and drop toys everywhere. Their cages need regular cleaning, and their diet often includes fresh fruits and vegetables, which can be messy. Are you comfortable with the extra cleaning required?
Are you willing to understand and monitor their health condition?
Parrots are naturally wired to hide signs of illness – when they start to show some signs, it could be at an advanced stage. Daily observation and monitoring is necessary to keep track of changes in appetite, weight, behaviour and energy levels in order to detect issues early. If there are concerns, you’ll also need to be willing to seek veterinary attention for your bird to prevent or cure any health issues!
Are you prepared to care for an emotionally complex pet?
Parrots are not just intelligent—they are also emotionally deep. They can be jealous, territorial, anxious, or highly attached to one person. Some may take years to fully trust and bond with their owner. If you want a pet that is always predictable and easy-going, a parrot may not be the right choice.
Are you willing to continuously learn about parrot care as new research emerges?
Unlike dogs and cats, parrots have only recently been studied as companion animals, and our understanding of their needs is still evolving. New information about diet, behaviour, and veterinary care continues to emerge. Are you open to learning and adapting to provide the best care?
Are you committed to adapting to your parrot’s needs rather than imposing fixed expectations?
Parrots have unique personalities—some are cuddly, some are independent, and some are mischievous. They are not robots that will behave exactly as you want. Are you willing to be patient, flexible, and learn to understand your parrot’s way of communicating?
Conclusion: Is a Parrot the Right Pet for You?
If you answered YES to all the questions above and are ready for the commitment, a parrot could be a wonderful, lifelong companion. Their intelligence, charm, and affectionate nature make them deeply rewarding pets for the right owner.
However, if you have doubts, it’s okay to reconsider. Many parrots are surrendered each year because owners were not fully prepared for the challenges of parrot care. If you’re unsure, consider researching further or exploring other pet options that may better suit your lifestyle.
A well-cared-for parrot can bring years of joy, but they deserve a home that understands and respects their needs. Are you ready for the journey?
