When cats and birds live together in the same household, it can be quite a challenge. Cats are natural predators and birds are their natural prey. If you want to keep cats and birds in the same place, you should get a cat proof bird cage. Cat proof bird cages will keep your cat from attacking your pet bird and help make sure your pet bird and cat can live together happily.
If you just want to know what our top pick is, it’s the Prevue Pet Products Wrought Iron Bird Cage (Buy Online). It has solid, impenetrable acrylic panels that make it a great choice for safety.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you on how to cat proof your bird cage and review some of the best cat proof bird cages in the market.
Cage Bars and Wire Spacing: The bar spacing of the cage should be small enough to prevent a cat’s paw from reaching into the cage. For small birds like budgies and parakeets, a spacing of 1/2 inch is ideal. For larger birds like cockatiels and parrots, go for a cage with a gap of 5/8 to 3/4 inch.
Sturdy and Durable: The cage should be heavy and sturdy. Stainless steel bird cages are a good choice as they are durable and heavy-duty. A cage that sits on a stand or a hanging bird cage can also deter cats from reaching the top of the cage.
Locks and Latches: Opt for a cage with a complex latch or lock. Cats are smart and can learn to open simple latches, so a cage with a secure lock can prevent them from prying the cage doors open.
Dome or Slant Top: A dome top or slanted cage can discourage a cat from sitting on top of the cage, reducing the chances of a bird getting frightened.
Comparison Table For Best Cat Proof Bird Cages
Prevue Pet Products Wrought Iron
Our ratings
- Target Species: Bird
- Product Dimensions: 24"L x 20"W x 60"H
- Gap Size: 12.7 Millimeters
- Material: Alloy Steel
Editor’s choice!
Yaheetech Large Parrot Cage
Our ratings
- Target Species: Bird
- Product Dimensions: 24.5"L x 17"W x 53.5"H
- Gap Size: 1 cm/0.4’’ bar spacing
- Material: Wrought Iron
Vision S01 Wire Bird Cage
Our ratings
- Target Species: Finch
- Product Dimensions: 19"L x 15"W x 20"H
- Gap Size: 0.48 Inches
- Material: None
Amazon Basics Large 3-Tier Cat Cage
Our ratings
- Target Species: Cat
- Product Dimensions: 51"L x 22"W x 36"H
- Gap Size: None
- Material: Metal
Eiiel Large Cat Cage Enclosure
Our ratings
- Target Species: Cat
- Product Dimensions: 41.3"L x 27.6"W x 55.1"H
- Gap Size: 1.6 Inches
- Material: Alloy Steel
Best 5 Cat Proof Bird Cages
Prevue Pet Products Wrought Iron Select Bird Cage
Overall, the Prevue Wrought Iron bird cage provides safe and decorative housing for birds like parakeets or cockatiels. Its slide out tray simplifies cleaning. But monitor small birds carefully due to wide bars. With its quality build yet challenging assembly, it’s a stylish cage option for calmer medium sized birds.
What we like
- Spacious interior for birds to fly
- Easy slide out metal grille for cleaning
- Comes with perches, dishes, and toy
- Quality metal construction
What we don't like
- Bar spacing may be too wide for smaller finches
- Quite heavy and bulky
- Not suitable for aggressive chewers
Yaheetech Large Parrot Cage
The Yaheetech Large Parrot Cage provides a roomy and mobile living space for big parrots. The playtop allows safe outdoor-like activity. But assembly can be tricky and it may not suit destructive birds. Overall a quality cage designed for larger parrot breeds if sized appropriately.
What we like
- Roomy interior with multiple perches
- Playtop area for outdoor-like experience
- Easy to move on rolling casters
- Two feeder doors simplify feeding
- Durable rust-resistant construction
What we don't like
- Bars may be chewed by aggressive parrots
- Locking wheel brakes could be sturdier
- May be too large for some home spaces
Vision S01 Wire Bird Cage
What we like
- Comes with accessories like perches and dishes
- Available in Small, Medium and Large sizes
- Quick click-snap assembly
- Sturdy construction with stable base
What we don't like
- Only suitable for small bird breeds
- Assembly instructions could be clearer
- Does not come with cage cover
Amazon Basics Large 3-Tier Cat Cage Playpen Box
The Amazon Basics 3-Tier Cat Cage provides ample and affordable enclosed space for contained play and litter training. But supervise kittens carefully due to wide bar spacing. Works best for calmer cats up to 15 lbs. Overall, a decent budget cage option with expandable modular design.
What we like
- Spacious 3-tier design with lots of room
- Metal wire construction is durable
- Multiple access doors for easy entry
- Locking door latches for security
- No tools required for quick simple assembly
- Budget-friendly price point
What we don't like
- Bars may be too widely spaced for kittens
- Screws tend to loosen over time
- Not suitable for aggressive or feral cats
- Difficult for a single person to move
Eiiel Large Cat Cage Enclosure
The Eiiel Large Cat Cage offers a modular and sizable contained area for active indoor cats. But the DIY assembly and build quality have drawn some criticism. Best for calmer adult cats, with supervision for kittens. Provides flexible custom pen layout if assembled properly.
What we like
- Four doors allow easy entry and access
- Four doors allow easy entry and access
- Durable alloy steel wire construction
- Rust-resistant black E-coat finish
What we don't like
- 1.6" bar spacing may be too wide for kittens
- May require two people for setup
- Difficult to move once assembled
Tips to Keep Your Bird Safe
Never leave your bird alone unsupervised with your cat. Even if your bird’s cage is cat-proof, the presence of a cat can still scare or stress your bird.
Keep the cage in a high place where the cat can’t reach. This might be on a sturdy stand or a secure hook in the ceiling. Alternatively, you can hang the cage at a height with a strong chain.
Use natural deterrents. Cats hate the smell of citrus. Placing citrus peels around the birdcage area can discourage the cat from getting too close.
Train your cat. Teach your cat to leave the bird’s cage alone. A firm ‘no’ command whenever they’ll approach the cage can help.
How to Train Dogs, Cats and Birds to Live Together
Training dogs, cats, and birds to coexist requires patience, positive reinforcement, and keeping a close eye on their interactions.
Start by keeping them separated at first and allow limited supervised interaction. Reward calm behavior with treats and praise.
Provide plenty of vertical space for birds with cat trees and wall-mounted perches. Keep litter boxes clean and walk dogs frequently to avoid territorial issues.
Introduce pets slowly, watching closely for signs of aggression or stress. Use distraction techniques and scolding minimally.
Be prepared to keep them apart if aggression persists. With time, consistency, and positive associations, pets of different species can learn to get along. But be realistic about natural instincts, and don’t allow incompatible animals to interact. Work at their pace, keep sessions brief, and show love to all pets in the household.
Final Thoughts on Cat Proof Bird Cages
In summery, while it’s best to always supervise interactions between cats and birds, a well-selected cat-proof bird cage can provide an extra layer of protection for your feathered friends. Remember, the best cat proof bird cage is one that is sturdy, has the right bar spacing, and a secure lock. Happy pet parenting!
Cat Proof Bird Cages: FAQs
1. What is a cat-proof bird cage?
A cat-proof bird cage is a specially designed cage that prevents cats from accessing and harming pet birds. It typically has narrow wire spacing, sturdy construction, secure locks, and appropriate height to keep cats away from birds.
2. How do I cat-proof my bird cage?
To cat-proof your bird cage, make sure the cage bars have a narrow spacing to prevent cats from squeezing through. Use heavy and sturdy materials for the cage construction, and ensure it has a secure latch or lock. Place the cage in an area where cats cannot reach it easily.
3. Can cats and birds coexist in the same household?
While it’s possible for cats and birds to coexist, it requires careful supervision and precautions. Never leave the bird alone with the cat, as the cat’s natural prey instinct may kick in. Always ensure the bird is safe inside a cat-proof cage or in a separate room when the cat is present.
4. What is the ideal wire spacing for a cat-proof bird cage?
The ideal wire spacing for a cat-proof bird cage is typically between 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch. This prevents cats from getting their paws through the bars or sticking their heads inside the cage.
5. Should I hang the bird cage or place it on a stand?
Both options can work, but it’s generally recommended to hang the bird cage if you have a cat in the house. By hanging the cage from the ceiling or using a secure hanger, you can keep it out of the cat’s reach and minimize the risk of the cat swiping at the bird.
6. How can I prevent cats from trying to sit on top of the bird cage?
Cats are known to try and sit on top of bird cages, which can be stressful for the bird. You can discourage this behavior by placing a slanted cage top that does not provide a comfortable surface for the cat to sit on. Alternatively, you can use a cat repellent on top of the cage to make it less appealing to the cat.
7. What are some additional measures to keep cats away from the bird cage?
Aside from having a cat-proof cage, there are a few extra steps you can take. Keep the bird cage in a separate room that you can close off when you’re not able to supervise the interactions between cats and birds.
