Ask Lafeber

First time pet owner

I’m looking at getting a small bird, likely a cockatiel, once I finish my schooling. Our family owns a cat so the only places that would be safe for it would be in a cage either outside the house, but close and in constant view, or in my room. I’ve read that it is bad for birds to be left alone in a room, as they feel isolated, so would having a bird in either of these spaces be bad for it? Would it still be happy or should I wait until I have my own space, with no cat, to purchase a new pet?

Hi Alice,

I would not keep the bird outside because they don’t do well with climate changes and there are concerns about predators or diseases & parasites from wild birds. If you are in your room a lot, then this would be fine. If not, then yes, it is probably best to wait until you have your own place. Keep in mind that having a bird or other pet can limit your housing choices, so if this is something you will be doing soon, I would wait and make sure you can find a place that accepts caged birds.

Thank you for asking Lafeber,

Brenda