Cage

What cage modifications have you made for your crippled parrot?

I have an African Grey with a crippled foot. I will be getting him a larger cage and want to make some cage modifications, ie, shelves, ramps, etc. Want ideas from people who have done it. Care to share?

Public Comments

1. Dr Fosters and Smith (fostersmith.com) has a sunning perch- can hang on the side of the cage and provide platforms- but are still grates and easy to clean. You can also get very wide perches (cotton and wood) if he can rest some weight on it. As for ramps, I have seen plexi glass with pegs or wood with pegs (like a ladder, but without holes between the runs. I would definately not angle them too much. Also: I would suggest not clipping his wings too short- he may need them for balance. Good luck and I am glad to hear you still want to take care of him!
2. you can get perches that called deck perches they hand in side . its a large self . i had crippled tiel i had a arch for her. put the food on the botton
3. put the perches closer to gether so its easy to get around
4. It's surprising how much they can do with only one good foot. The shelves others have mentioned, plus the close together perches may be a good idea. Ramps sound like a great idea. Ladders that he can use to get around on using his beak and good foot, too. I once worked with a brain damaged cockatoo who had trouble keeping his balance, so we made his cage wider than it was long so he could still sit on a perch, but he couldn't fall very fall if he lost his balance. It really depends on the bird and his particular infirmity, but I'm sure you'll do great with him.