Consider These 7 Factors Before Getting a Cockatoo
Thinking about bringing home a cockatoo? These beautiful, affectionate birds can make amazing companions — but they’re definitely not for everyone. After living with parrots and chatting with other bird lovers over the years, we’ve learned one thing for sure: cockatoos are smart, demanding, and full of personality. If you’re not ready to treat them like a toddler with feathers (and a beak!), you might want to hold off.
Here’s what you really need to know before committing:
Cockatoos Need Tons of Attention
Cockatoos thrive on interaction. They don’t just like being around you — they need to be with you. If you're not giving them enough time and mental stimulation, they'll let you know... loudly. Screaming, feather plucking, and even aggression can crop up in bored or neglected birds.
They bond deeply with their humans and can become clingy. Some folks love that; others find it overwhelming. If you’re gone most of the day or don’t have time for daily interaction, a cockatoo probably isn’t the right fit.
Diet: More Than Just Seeds
Forget just tossing seeds in a bowl and calling it a day. A healthy cockatoo diet includes:
- A high-quality seed mix (for large hookbills)
- Fresh fruits and veggies daily (think leafy greens, carrots, apples — not avocado or chocolate, which are toxic)
- Foraging opportunities — hide food in puzzle toys or stuff veggies into paper cups for them to dig out
If your cockatoo tends to destroy calcium blocks, you might want to sprinkle a little calcium powder on their food once a week.
Exercise Is Non-Negotiable
Cockatoos are energetic birds. If they're cooped up in a cage all day, they'll start acting out. Since free flight isn’t always safe indoors, here are some safer ways to keep them moving:
- Climbing ropes or ladders
- Wing-flapping while perched
- Interactive play with toys or games
You’ll also want to rotate their toys regularly to keep things fresh and exciting.
Cage Size & Setup Matter
These birds need space. Big space.
- Large breeds (like Umbrella or Moluccan): Minimum 40" wide x 30" deep cage
- Smaller breeds (like Goffin or Ducorps): At least 36" wide x 24" deep
Always go bigger if you can. Horizontal bars are a must for climbing, and make sure the cage is sturdy — cockatoos have strong beaks and are escape artists. We’ve seen them twist open latches like pros. Snap-lock doors are a smart choice.
Cage Cleaning Routine
Cockatoos are dusty birds — literally. They produce feather dust, which settles everywhere. To keep their cage clean:
- Use newspaper or paper towels in the tray
- Change the liner and clean food/water bowls daily
- Scrub perches and toys weekly
- Deep clean the entire cage monthly
Choose a cage with a grate to keep them out of dirty bedding, since bacteria and mold can grow quickly.
Grooming: Keep It Simple
Cockatoos often groom themselves, so you don’t need to bathe them daily. Occasional misting or a shallow water dish is enough. But you do need to trim their nails and beak if they get overgrown — or better yet, have a vet or experienced groomer handle it.
Training Takes Patience
Cockatoos are smart, but they’re also stubborn. Training isn’t just about teaching tricks — it helps prevent screaming, biting, and other problem behaviors. Here’s what’s worked for us:
- Start with taming: Handle them gently in a quiet space, use treats, and build trust
- Keep sessions short and positive — end on a good note
- Never yell or punish — it only builds fear and breaks trust
- Use repetition and rewards to teach simple words or behaviors
Consistency and patience go a long way. And don’t expect overnight results!
Are You Ready for a 50-Year Commitment?
Cockatoos can live for decades — sometimes up to 50 years or more. Think of them like emotional toddlers who never grow up. They’ll need attention, structured routines, and plenty of enrichment every single day.
If you’re up for the challenge, they can be incredibly affectionate and entertaining companions. But if your lifestyle doesn’t allow for that kind of commitment, it’s okay to admire them from afar.
Final Thoughts
Cockatoos are amazing — funny, social, and full of life. But they’re also high-maintenance pets that require a lot more than a pretty cage and some toys.
If you’re serious about bringing one home, start by visiting a local bird rescue or talking to experienced cockatoo owners. And if you decide to go for it, try to adopt a young bird — they tend to adjust more easily to new homes and training.
They’re not the easiest pets, but with the right care, a cockatoo can become one of the most rewarding companions you’ll ever have. Just be ready for the noise, the mess, and the endless need for your love and time.