Five Reasons A Bird Makes The Perfect First Pet For You

When looking at getting a pet, many people immediately look at dogs and cats. Some people look at fish as well (in particular, goldfish). For little kids, parents sometimes consider a hamster or guinea pig. However, birds tend not to be at the top of the list. People have birds as pets, but there's a perception, perhaps, that birds are messy or that they don't make as cuddly pets like dogs or cats. While it's true that you can't pet a bird as you can pet a cat, that doesn't mean they make bad pets. Here are five reasons why birds make the best first pet and why they're considered as beginner pets. 

Birds Develop Intense Bonds With Their Owners

Birds are remarkably intelligent creatures that have lots of affection. Birds can mimic what their owners do (who hasn't seen a talking parrot, for example). They use songs and calls to communicate. They are remarkably fascinating creatures, even though that intelligence may not be obvious to start. If you want a pet that you can interact with and have fun with, then some species of birds, like African Greys or Macaws, are right for you.

Birds Live A Long Time

If you are the type of person that wants to keep a pet around for quite a while, then a bird is an excellent choice for you. Dogs last anywhere from 8-15 years. Cats typically pass away around 15-20 years. The birds with the shortest lifespans, like budgies, live for 20 years. Parrots and macaws can live for 100 years in optimal conditions. In this respect, birds become lifelong companions as opposed to pets that you take care of for a few years. If that type of companionship appeals to you, then getting a bird might be a great choice!

Birds Are Less Costly

Dogs and cats can be costly pets when you add up the food, vet bills, and so on. Birds, on the other hand, are quite inexpensive. Birdfeed is incredibly cheap when compared to different types of pets. If you are looking for a companion that doesn't require much money, then a bird is right for you.

They Require Less Maintenance Overall

Unlike cats and dogs, birds require little maintenance. You don't need to walk birds like you need to walk dogs. Furthermore, cleaning a cage is usually significantly less work than cleaning a litter box or the poop-n-scoop method with dogs. Most of your time, you will be caring for your bird's social needs, which is the most fun part anyway!

Birds Are Easy To Train

Birds are easy to train and can learn new things rapidly. Birds can step up and can even come to you when you call them. Being able to teach them new things gives them an edge over some other pets, like cats and hamsters, which, although cute, don't have the ability to do fun tricks.

Birds Make Fantastic First Pets

Even if you have never owned a pet before, birds are good first-time pets. They are intelligent, relatively low maintenance, and inexpensive to keep. On top of that, they're fun! Birds are joyous creatures to have and make a great addition to any home.

What is a good first pet for a child?

Small animals like hamsters, gerbils, and guinea pigs, make the best first pets for a child. They are typically easier to handle and care for, and are non-threatening.

What is a good first reptile pet?

Reptiles have different nutritional and environmental needs than the typical dog and cat pets. It's best to start caring for a small and low maintenance reptile if it's your first time. Some reptiles that are easy to care for include the bearded dragon, leopard geckos, lizards, and turtles.

How to pet a dog for the first time?

Dogs are pack animals so respecting their bounderies is extremely important. If you are a complete stranger to them, you can start by slowing petting them on their shoulders or back while avoiding too much eye contact. Petting them on the head right away is threatening to them, especially if you approach them suddenly without making any sounds.

Check out our blog and follow me on LinkedIn to stay up-to-date!