Cockatoo Care Guide

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Published: July 27, 2021      Written by Nicholas Burns      Fact Checked:

Last modified: July 12th, 2022
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Cockatoo Care Guide
Cockatoo Care Guide

Cockatoos are popular though high-maintenance pet birds, they need hours of daily attention and plenty of time outside of their cage. Learn all about Cockatoo care here.

Cockatoo Size:

It’s important to understand the size that these birds will grow into, so you can plan your home accordingly. They can range in length from 12 to 28 inches at full maturity, depending on the specific species.

Cockatoo Care:

Cockatoos are one of the most intelligent birds in the world, and they are also one of the most demanding pets that you can take on. They require a lot of attention, and they are very sensitive to their environment.

Cockatoos, like other parrots, can talk to each other, and they can learn a lot of words and phrases. They also need a lot of exercise.

You should provide them with multiple toys and toys that allow them to exercise their wings and their beaks as well.

Cockatoo Diet:

The diet and nutrition of a cockatoo is an important part of caring for this beautiful bird. Cockatoos need a lot of protein and fresh vegetables.

Providing a cockatoo with food it likes and providing proper nutrition will keep your bird healthy.

Some foods your Cockatoo will love:

  • Seeds
  • Nuts
  • Bananas
  • Strawberries
  • Apple
  • Spinach
  • Other leafy greens
  • Cooked Fish (in moderation)
  • Cooked Eggs (in moderation)
  • Cheese (in moderation)

Cockatoo Habitat:

The cage should be about three feet wide, and two feet wide, with a height of at least four feet, and be constructed of metal. Plastic is not a good cage material for cockatoos as they may chew through it.

A safe perch should be provided to prevent the bird from falling from the cage.

A birdbath or water dish should be provided to encourage your cockatoo to drink. A playhouse is a good addition for a cockatoo to enjoy.

Cockatoos are very social birds and do better when kept in pairs. They should be kept with at least one other Cockatoo for company, and preferably also with smaller birds as companions–like a Budgie.

Cockatoo Behavior:

Cockatoos are one of the more sensitive birds and require a lot more attention and care, but they can be trained and taught to do tricks.

Cockatoos are naturally curious and intelligent birds that enjoy playing and learning tricks but need to be kept safe from harm. They are also very social birds that love to be around their family and flock of friends.

They’re not one of the more talkative species either, though they can learn to mimic some words and phrases, and typically if kept in pairs they’ll grow a larger vocabulary simply from “talking” to each other.

Cockatoo Care Synopsis:

Cockatoos are popular though high-maintenance pet birds. They require a lot of time and attention each day.

In order to thrive and be healthy the cockatoo needs a varied and balanced diet. Bananas, strawberries, apples, seeds, and nuts are among the best foods to feed the cockatoo.

It also requires a large enough cage to remain active and “spread its wings” in and does best when kept in pairs and/or with some smaller companion birds too.

Look deeper into this wonderful species of bird here.

Nicholas Burns – Veterinary Technician, amateur Ornithologist

Nick has volunteered at bird rescues since he was a teenager and worked as a veterinary technician for almost two decades. He has extensive experience with animal care and a special love for birds, especially his African Grey, Scrooge (who knows all the bad words!).


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