Parrots are beautiful, intelligent, and affectionate companions, but they are also long-term, high-maintenance pets. Unlike other pets that may be relatively easy to care for, parrots require significant time, financial investment, and ongoing responsibility. Before bringing one home, it’s essential to understand what you’re committing to.
This guide will break down the three major aspects of parrot ownership: time commitment, financial costs, and daily responsibilities.
1. Time Commitment
Parrots are highly social animals that need daily interaction and stimulation to stay happy and healthy. A lack of attention can lead to serious behavioural issues, such as feather plucking, excessive screaming, or aggression.
How Much Time Do Parrots Require?
- Social Interaction – At a bare minimum, parrots need at least 1 hour of direct interaction per day, though more is preferable. If a parrot is kept alone without a suitable feathered companion, it will require even more human attention to compensate.
- Out-of-Cage Time – Parrots should have several hours outside their cage daily for exercise and exploration.
- Training & Mental Stimulation – Without toys, puzzles, and regular training, parrots can become bored, leading to destructive behaviours.
Are You a Good Fit for a Parrot?
If you travel frequently, work long hours, or don’t have time for daily interaction, a parrot may not be the right pet for you.
2. Financial Commitment
Parrots are not cheap pets. From high-quality food to veterinary care, their costs add up over time. Here’s an estimate of the typical initial and yearly expenses of owning a parrot.
Estimated Costs of Parrot Ownership
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Cage & Accessories | $100 – $500+ (Initial cost) – Larger, high-quality cages cost more but last longer. Cheaper cages may need frequent replacement. |
| Food (Pellets, Fruits, Veggies) | $20 – $50 per month |
| Toys & Enrichment | $10 – $50 per month – Parrots need a constant supply of new toys to prevent boredom. |
| Vet Check-ups | At least $50 per visit (routine check-up) – Can cost hundreds or even over $1000 for treatments or emergency care. |
| Cleaning Supplies | $10 – $30 per month – Essential for keeping the cage and surrounding area hygienic. |
Unexpected Costs:
- Medical emergencies can be costly, as avian vets specialise in exotic animals.
- Chewing damage – Parrots may destroy furniture, electrical wires, and household items.
- Replacement costs – Toys, perches, and cages need replacing over time.
A responsible parrot owner should budget for both routine and emergency expenses. If these costs seem overwhelming, consider whether you’re financially prepared for a long-term commitment.
3. Daily & Long-Term Responsibilities
Owning a parrot isn’t just about feeding and playing with them—it requires consistent care, cleaning, and health monitoring.
Daily Responsibilities
✔ Feeding fresh food and water
✔ Cleaning food and water bowls
✔ Changing cage liners and cleaning cage grilles
✔ Cleaning the surrounding area (parrots throw food and shed feathers!)
✔ Providing mental stimulation with toys, puzzles, or training
✔ Ensuring out-of-cage time and supervised exercise
✔ Social interaction and bonding
✔ Monitoring your parrot’s health, behaviour, and droppings
Weekly & Monthly Responsibilities
✔ Weighing your parrot to monitor health
✔ Deep cleaning toys, perches, and the cage
✔ Rotating enrichment items to prevent boredom
Long-Term Responsibilities
✔ Regular vet check-ups to prevent illness
✔ Ongoing training and behaviour management
✔ Adjusting care as the parrot ages
✔ Making arrangements for your parrot’s care if you are unable to look after them due to travel, illness, or life changes
Final Thoughts: Is a Parrot Right for You?
Parrots are not temporary pets. They require the same level of dedication as raising a child. Many parrots are abandoned or rehomed because their owners underestimated the challenges of parrot care.
If you are fully prepared for the time, cost, and responsibility, a parrot can be one of the most rewarding companions you will ever have. However, if you have doubts, it’s best to do more research or consider a pet that better suits your lifestyle.
A well-cared-for parrot will bring decades of joy—but only if you are truly ready for the commitment.
