9 Important Considerations Before You Adopt Cockatoos

Most pet owners like to have cockatoos as pets because of their talkativeness, beauty and nice character; however it is important to take into considerations many factors before adopting them.

Factors to be considered before adopting a cockatoo:

1) Though cockatoos are mischievous, have a streak of comedy and are affectionate, yet it is necessary to know that they need a lot of attention and turn cranky in the absence of attention. They also show their displeasure by shouting, becoming confused, aggressive and even attacking their owners.

2) These birds of the Indonesian Islands have 21 species; most cockatoos are white in color, though you could also find others in shades of pink, gray and deep blue. The most common small cockatoos are sulfur-crested cockatoo and Goffin's cockatoo, while the Moluccan cockatoo, greater sulfur-crested cockatoo, and the umbrella cockatoo are the larger ones.

3) The average lifespan of smaller breeds is about 40 years, while larger breeds live for as much as 80 years; so a longtime commitment is needed. Most cockatoos in captivity die young; indicating that they need good care as a pet.

4) It is found that cockatoos are not inclined towards mimicry; however some species can be trained to talk like humans.

5) Cockatoos differ from other parrots in being very manipulative and contemplative by nature; they have rapid mood swings and would scream at one moment and act comic at another. Since they are sensitive they require attention and to be cuddled; they may become loud and aggressive and even start plucking their feathers and indulge in self-mutilation in its attention.

6) Plucking of feathers could also indicate stress and other disorders like zinc poisoning, bacterial infection, dry skin, vitamin A deficiency, or tapeworm; this requires immediate attention from a vet.   

7) Small cockatoos need cages that are at least 24" x 36" x 48" in size with a bar spacing of ¾" to 1", while large cockatoos need cages of at least 24" x 48" x 48”, with a bar spacing of about 1" to 1.5". They have tough beaks so they require stronger cages of wrought iron or stainless steel. 

8) Cockatoos love toys and are aggressive chewers that love to destroy things; it is best to give them toys made out of soft wood, vegetable tanned leather, bells, ropes and cardboard. Their toys should include hanging toys as well as those that they can pick with their beak; rotation of toys helps eliminate boredom.

9) Last but most important most cockatoos are happy to feast on grains, fruits and fresh vegetables. Never give cockatoos chocolates, fried foods, alcohol, or salted foods, like potato chips, and pretzels; give nuts and other seed mixes only as treats.  

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