Buying Parakeets at PetSmart: 5 Must-Know Facts Before You Buy! (2024)

This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.

Thinking about buying parakeets at PetSmart? Here are five must-know facts.

First, parakeets are social, energetic birds that thrive with interaction—so they’ll need your time or even a companion bird to avoid loneliness.

Second, the initial cost ($20-$40) is just the start; you’ll also spend on a cage (minimum 18x18x24 inches), toys, and food.

Third, a proper diet includes fresh veggies, seeds, and pellets—not just treats!

Fourth, their health depends on a clean cage and regular vet visits to avoid common issues like respiratory infections. Ethical concerns are also important to consider.

Parakeet Care Guide

Ready to bring home a feathered friend from PetSmart? Your parakeet’s care is key to a happy, healthy companion.

Start with the right cage – aim for at least 18 x 18 x 24 inches – positioned away from drafty spots and at eye level or below, and be sure to research the ideal parakeet cage size to guarantee your bird’s comfort. Think of the cage as your bird’s personal castle, complete with a comfy paper-lined floor that gets changed every other day.

Nutrition is where the magic happens. Mix up their diet with 15-25% pellets, 50-60% seed blend, and sprinkle in fresh veggies and fruits.

But here’s the real secret: toys, toys, toys! These little guys need mental stimulation more than you might think. Bells, swings, and chew toys aren’t just fun – they’re essential for keeping your parakeet’s mind sharp and spirits high.

Get ready for a chirpy adventure!

Setting Up Your Parakeet’s Home

After bringing home your feathered friend from PetSmart, creating the perfect parakeet paradise is your next mission. Your bird’s home isn’t just a cage—it’s a sanctuary that’ll make or break their happiness.

Your parakeet needs a setup that’s part fortress, part playground. Think of it like designing a tiny studio apartment for your most feathered roommate—comfort, safety, and entertainment are non-negotiable.

Proper Nutrition for Parakeets

Now that you’ve set up the perfect parakeet paradise, let’s talk about keeping your feathered friend healthy from the inside out. Nutrition isn’t just fuel – it’s the secret sauce to a happy, vibrant parakeet that’ll chirp its way into your heart. For a convenient and wide selection of parakeet food options, including PetSmart parakeet food, you can explore online marketplaces.

Food Type	Percentage	Frequency	Notes
Pellets	15-25%	Daily	Nutritional foundation
Seed Blend	50-60%	Daily	Primary diet component
Fresh Veggies	Every other day	Regular	Dark leafy greens
Fresh Fruits	Regular	Occasional	Berries, melons

Imagine your parakeet’s diet as a balanced buffet that keeps them singing and thriving. Pelleted food serves as the nutritional powerhouse, packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Your seed blend acts like the main course – filling and satisfying. But here’s the trick: don’t go overboard. Too much of a good thing can turn your chirpy companion into a feathered couch potato.

Sprinkle in fresh vegetables like a nutritional confetti – dark leafy greens that’ll make your bird’s feathers shine brighter than a new penny. Fruits are the dessert – think berries or melon chunks that’ll have your parakeet doing a happy dance. Pro tip: treats like honey sticks or millet spray? Save those for special occasions – once a month max.

Remember, a well-fed parakeet is a happy parakeet. Your local PetSmart offers everything you’ll need to keep your new buddy in tip-top shape.

Bonding and Playing With Your Parakeet

When diving into parakeet playtime, you’ll discover a world of feathered friendship that transforms your new pet from a mere companion to a true buddy.

Here’s your healthy parakeet checklist for building trust and connection:

1. Hand-feed treats to break the ice and show you’re a friend, not a threat
2. Teach simple training tricks like stepping up or mimicking short words
3. Sing and whistle to engage their musical side and encourage interaction
4. Create daily bonding sessions that make handling safely feel natural

Your parakeet craves social connection, so approach with patience. Speak softly, move slowly, and let them set the pace. With consistent, gentle interaction, you’ll soon have a chatty, affectionate feathered friend who can’t wait to see you.

Maintaining The Health of Your Parakeet

Just as you’ve learned to connect with your feathered friend through play, your parakeet’s wellness becomes your next mission. Your parakeet’s wellness depends on sharp observation and proactive care. Spotting early signs of illness can mean the difference between a quick recovery and a serious problem.

Maintaining proper cage hygiene through regular cleaning and disinfection, as part of preventing parakeet health issues, is essential in keeping your parakeet healthy and thriving.

Symptom	Warning Sign	Action Needed
Lethargy	Low energy	Vet check
Feather Changes	Dull/missing feathers	Immediate exam
Respiratory Issues	Sneezing/discharge	Urgent care
Appetite Changes	Not eating	Diet assessment
Behavioral Shifts	Unusual aggression	Stress evaluation

Regular check-ups, a balanced diet rich in pellets and fresh vegetables, and maintaining a clean environment are your best defenses against parakeet illnesses. Watch for subtle changes – your keen observation could save your bird’s life.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Parakeet

Before bringing a parakeet home from PetSmart, you’ll need to carefully assess whether you’re ready for the long-term commitment of bird ownership.

Consider the financial costs.

Consider the daily care requirements.

Consider the potential 7-10 year lifespan that’ll transform your home and daily routine.

Health Risks Associated?

After keeping your parakeet healthy through proper diet and care, you’ll want to know the potential health risks that could throw a wrench in your birdie buddy’s well-being.

Parakeet diseases like Salmonella, Psittacosis, and respiratory infections can sneak up quickly.

Regular check-ups with an avian vet, maintaining a clean environment, and watching for early warning signs are your best defense against these pesky health challenges.

Ethical Concerns Regarding?

In the murky world of pet store sourcing, buying a parakeet from PetSmart raises serious ethical eyebrows.

Breeders’ practices often prioritize profit over animal welfare, leading to overbreeding and potential health issues.

To learn more about responsible parakeet breeding, consider the importance of Parakeet breeder ethics.

Your responsible pet ownership journey starts with understanding these concerns.

Before bringing home a feathered friend, consider the deeper implications of your purchase and the parakeet’s well-being.

Alternatives to Buying?

When ethical concerns about pet store parakeets weigh heavy, consider alternative paths to feathered friendship.

Rescue organizations and local bird shelters offer loving parakeets seeking forever homes.

Adoption saves a life and often provides healthier, well-socialized birds at a fraction of PetSmart prices.

You’ll also feel good knowing you’ve given a bird a second chance, and that’s in addition to the knowledge of having made a more cost-effective decision. Rescue organizations and shelters are a great alternative path.

The Types of Parakeets Available at PetSmart

If you’re ready to bring home a feathered friend, PetSmart offers a colorful array of parakeets that’ll make your heart flutter. These charming birds come in a stunning variety of color variations – from sunshine yellows to vibrant blues and greens – each with its own unique personality.

PetSmart typically sells budgies (the most common type of parakeet) that range in temperament from social butterflies to more reserved companions. Size differences matter too: most parakeets at PetSmart are relatively small, measuring around 7-12 inches, making them perfect for apartments or smaller living spaces.

As with any parakeet, including American and English budgies, understanding their origin and history before making a decision is vital.

When choosing your new winged buddy, you’ll want to observe their personalities. Some parakeets are chatterboxes, while others are more laid-back. The birds usually start at six months old and come with basic health checks.

Pro tip: spend a few minutes interacting with potential pets to find your perfect match. Remember, these little guys typically live 7-10 years, so you’re making a real commitment to a tiny, feathered family member.

The Cost of Buying a Parakeet From PetSmart

Ready to welcome a feathered friend from PetSmart? Your parakeet adventure starts with understanding the real wallet impact.

At PetSmart, parakeets typically range from $20 to $40, but that’s just the beginning of your financial journey. Remember that rare color mutations can substantially increase the initial cost.

Budget-conscious bird lovers should prep for additional expenses that’ll ruffle your wallet’s feathers. A quality cage runs $50 to $100, while monthly food costs hover around $10 to $20. Don’t forget enrichment toys, which can add another $10 to $20 monthly.

Annual veterinary check-ups will set you back $50 to $100.

These colorful companions aren’t just a one-time purchase – they’re a long-term commitment that requires smart financial planning. Before bringing home your chirpy new friend, crunch those numbers and make certain you’re ready for the full parakeet package at PetSmart.

Tips for Shopping at PetSmart for Parakeet Supplies

Your parakeet shopping adventure at PetSmart demands strategic preparation to create a paradise for your feathered friend. Browsing the bird supply aisle requires more than just grabbing the first shiny accessories you see.

PetSmart’s bird section offers everything you’ll need to transform a simple cage into a vibrant paradise that’ll make your parakeet chirp with joy!

Preparing Your Home for a New Parakeet

Nestled in the perfect spot, your new parakeet’s home requires careful planning to create a safe and stimulating environment. When buying a parakeet from PetSmart, start by selecting a cage that’s at least 18 x 18 x 24 inches – giving your feathered friend room to spread its wings and explore. Secure food and water bowls strategically, attaching them firmly to prevent messy spills that’ll have you cleaning up more than just bird droppings.

Enrichment is key to a happy parakeet habitat. Stock up on toys from PetSmart’s bird section – think bells, swings, and chew toys that’ll keep your bird mentally stimulated and physically active. Arrange multiple perches at different heights, creating a mini playground that challenges and delights your new companion.

Location matters more than you might think. Avoid drafty windows, noisy areas, and temperature-sensitive spots like air conditioning vents. Instead, place the cage in a family-friendly area where your parakeet can feel part of the action without being overwhelmed. Pro tip: birds are social creatures, so choose a spot where they can watch household activities and feel connected.

Birdproofing isn’t just a suggestion – it’s a must for keeping your new feathered friend safe and sound.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)