To care for a cockatoo, provide a spacious cage, a balanced diet of pellets and fresh fruits, daily social interaction, and regular mental stimulation.
Cockatoos aren’t just pets – they’re lifelong companions with complex needs. These intelligent parrots demand specialized care, with some species living over 70 years. Get it wrong, and you’ll face destructive behaviors, health issues, and heartbreak. But done right? You’ll enjoy decades of joyful companionship from one of nature’s most charismatic birds.
Choosing the Perfect Cockatoo Habitat
Your cockatoo’s cage is their castle – get it wrong and you’ll see stress behaviors like feather plucking. The right setup prevents 80% of common behavioral issues.
- Minimum dimensions: 36″L x 24″W x 48″H for smaller species (Goffin’s) up to 60″L for large Moluccans
- Bar spacing: ¾” to 1″ to prevent head trapping
- Horizontal bars: Essential for climbing – cockatoos are acrobatic by nature
Cage Setup Essentials
Transform a basic cage into a cockatoo paradise:
| Item | Purpose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Natural wood perches | Foot health, beak maintenance | Replace when worn |
| Foraging toys | Mental stimulation | Rotate weekly |
| Cuttlebone | Calcium source | Replace monthly |
Pro Tip: Place the cage against a wall for security, but in a social area – cockatoos need to feel part of the flock. Check out our bird cage recommendations for durable options.
Nutrition: Beyond Seed Mixes
Veterinarians report that 60% of cockatoo health issues stem from poor diets. Here’s how to feed your bird right:
Ideal Diet Breakdown
- 65% high-quality pellets (Harrison’s, Roudybush)
- 25% fresh veggies (kale, sweet potatoes, peppers)
- 10% fruits/nuts (as treats)
Avoid avocado, chocolate, and caffeine – these are toxic. Foraging is crucial; hide food in interactive toys to mimic wild behaviors.
Socialization & Enrichment
Cockatoos are emotionally complex – a neglected bird will develop severe psychological issues. They require:
- 4+ hours daily interaction
- Training sessions (10-15 minutes each)
- Out-of-cage time (supervised)
Behavioral Red Flags
Watch for these warning signs of distress:
| Behavior | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Feather plucking | Boredom/stress | More toys, vet check |
| Excessive screaming | Attention-seeking | Positive reinforcement |
Health Maintenance Essentials
Annual vet checks catch 90% of issues early. Between visits, monitor:
- Droppings (color/consistency changes)
- Feather condition
- Appetite fluctuations
According to Merck Veterinary Manual, respiratory infections are common in poorly ventilated environments.
Grooming & Hygiene
Cockatoos produce powder down – a fine dust that protects feathers. Manage it with:
- Daily misting with lukewarm water
- Weekly baths (use a shallow dish)
- HEPA air filters nearby
Nail/beak trims should be done by professionals unless you’re trained. The Association of Avian Veterinarians offers certified practitioner listings.
Lifelong Commitment Considerations
Before adopting, ask yourself:
- Can I provide care for 40+ years?
- Do I have $1,000+ annually for vet care?
- Is my household prepared for noise?
Cockatoos bond deeply – rehoming causes severe trauma. If ready for the challenge, you’ll gain an incomparable companion.
