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What Are the Pros and Cons of a Parakeet as a Pet?

T. M. Robertson
T. M. Robertson

The pros and cons of a parakeet as a pet can vary somewhat depending on the individual animal at issue as well as the person, but in general the birds’ small size, visual appeal, and intelligence and responsiveness are the biggest pros. Parakeet care isn’t usually complicated and requires only minimal supplies, which can be advantageous; additionally the animals don’t usually need direct supervision the way many other pets do. On the con side, the birds often make a big mess, and the cage cleanup required to maintain sanitary conditions can be extensive. Time is also an issue where training is concerned. Owners who want birds who can do tricks and mimic back words usually have to spend a lot of time training them, and some birds are naturally faster learners than others. Parakeets can usually stay sustained with cage-based food and water for a day or two, but owners who travel frequently or who are away from home for long stretches may need to find someone to periodically check in on the pet, clean up after it, and replenish its supplies as well as provide it with some social stimulation. Parakeets who spend the majority of their time alone can become depressed and reserved.

Visual Appeal

Red-masked parakeets are among the most imported Neotropical birds in the United States.
Red-masked parakeets are among the most imported Neotropical birds in the United States.

Parakeets are also known as budgies in some parts of the world, and they belong to a large group of small parrots that includes ringneck parakeets, Quaker parakeets, and monk parakeets. The origin of the parakeet is traced back to Australia, where the aboriginal peoples native to the land called them budgerigar. Many people find parakeets visually appealing because of their patterns and bright colors, such as vibrant greens, blues, and yellows. They often resemble parrots, but are considerably smaller and also tend to be less expensive.

Intelligence and Responsiveness

Pet parrots require frequent care.
Pet parrots require frequent care.

In addition to their vibrant exterior, parakeets are considered social and intelligent animals. Having a parakeet as a pet appeals to owners seeking a companion they can interact with. These are highly social birds and they love to interact with people, birds, and even other animals. They frequently learn behaviors and mimic voices and tones, and with practice some parakeets have been known to learn vocabularies of more than 100 words. They can’t converse as much as they can mimic, but they respond well to cues and certain learned verbal commands.

Minimal Supplies Required

The budgerigar is also known as the common parakeet.
The budgerigar is also known as the common parakeet.

A big advantage to keeping a parakeet over many other pets lies in the fact that it can be relatively inexpensive and easy to care for. All a parakeet needs is a clean, small cage with a perch and adequate food and water; a cuttle bone and a mineral block for beak filing and a few toys to keep it happy are also usually recommended. Parakeets typically like reflective surfaces like mirrors and toys that make noise, particularly bells and rattles.

Parrots living in the wild are often birds of prey, and they can become defensive or aggressive when threatened.
Parrots living in the wild are often birds of prey, and they can become defensive or aggressive when threatened.

The needed supplies aren’t usually very expensive. As far as pets go, the birds themselves aren’t usually very costly, either. Of course, some rarer color patterns and specialized breeds will fetch higher sums, but in general standard parakeets are very affordable.

Mess

The primary disadvantage to keeping parakeets is that they can be extremely messy. It's common for owners to find seeds, feathers, and fecal matter well outside the cage. Also, since parakeets tend to relieve themselves of waste approximately every 15 minutes or so, their cages must be cleaned frequently. A parakeet's water supply must also be checked regularly, as they are known to contaminate their drinking and bath water with fecal matter.

Noise might also be an issue for some owners. Parakeets also are known to be very loud and vocal, especially in the early hours of morning when the sun first comes up.

Training Considerations

Though parakeets are intelligent, the most engaging and conversant birds have usually spent a great deal of time working to improve their skills and practice their abilities with their owners. There are a number of defined training plans that have been published, but owners don’t usually need to follow a strict plan; they do, however, usually need to spend a lot of time working with their birds and talking with them in order to encourage verbal development and mimicking. People who simply leave their birds alone in their cages are often disappointed that they aren’t as engaging as was hoped.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of having a parakeet as a pet?

Parakeets, also known as budgerigars, are vibrant and social birds, making them delightful companions. They require relatively low maintenance compared to larger pets, and their playful nature provides entertainment and interaction. Parakeets can mimic human speech, fostering a unique bond with their owners. They're also small, which makes them suitable for apartment living.

How long do parakeets typically live, and what does this mean for pet owners?

Parakeets have a lifespan of about 10 to 15 years when cared for properly. This longevity means owners should be prepared for a long-term commitment, ensuring they can provide consistent care, attention, and companionship throughout the bird's life. It's important to consider future life changes that might affect this commitment.

Are parakeets high-maintenance pets?

While parakeets are considered lower maintenance than many other pets, they still require daily care. This includes feeding a balanced diet, changing water, and cleaning their cage. They also need regular social interaction and mental stimulation, which can be time-consuming. Neglecting these needs can lead to behavioral issues and health problems.

Can parakeets be trained, and how does this affect their suitability as pets?

Parakeets are intelligent and can be trained to perform various tricks and to mimic speech, which enhances the pet-owner relationship. Training provides mental stimulation and can help prevent boredom. It requires patience and consistency, but it's a rewarding process that can improve the behavior and happiness of the bird, making them more enjoyable pets.

What potential health issues should parakeet owners be aware of?

Parakeets are prone to certain health issues such as respiratory infections, mites, and nutritional deficiencies. A proper diet, clean living environment, and regular veterinary check-ups can mitigate many of these risks. Being attentive to changes in behavior or appearance can help in early detection of health problems, ensuring prompt treatment.

Is a parakeet a good pet for families with children?

Parakeets can be excellent pets for families with children who are old enough to understand how to handle them gently. They can teach children responsibility and compassion through pet care. However, young children must be supervised to prevent accidental injury to the bird, and to ensure the parakeet isn't stressed by overly enthusiastic attention.

Discussion Comments

Wisedly33

Loud is relative, I suppose. Parakeets have nothing on cockatoos for being loud birds, plus they're much more suitable as pets.

I would also recommend someone considering adopting a parakeet (or any bird) to make sure there is a veterinarian in the area who does take care of birds. Many vets don't.

Birds are often placed in the "exotic" category, so a prospective owner needs to do some research as to whether his or her bird will have good care from someone accustomed to caring for the unique needs of birds. This is just a basic tenet for anyone who wants a bird.

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    • Red-masked parakeets are among the most imported Neotropical birds in the United States.
      By: Maisna
      Red-masked parakeets are among the most imported Neotropical birds in the United States.
    • Pet parrots require frequent care.
      By: susan flashman
      Pet parrots require frequent care.
    • The budgerigar is also known as the common parakeet.
      The budgerigar is also known as the common parakeet.
    • Parrots living in the wild are often birds of prey, and they can become defensive or aggressive when threatened.
      Parrots living in the wild are often birds of prey, and they can become defensive or aggressive when threatened.