A Bird as a Pet?

I would go for a beta fish for his age...they are very pretty, minimal responsibility and can live a long time. You do have to change their water every now and then, but not near as often as a goldfish (goldfish poop a ton!). Plus, they are very inexpensive and easily replaced if they perish.

I would say NO NO NO.

Also, whatever you get, you will be the primary caregiver so be careful about what you get.

A beta fish is a good alternative.

I also suggest no rabbits. We've been there done that with the bunny.

I had a cockatiel growing up. They can be very friendly and cuddley. Mine would sit on my shoulder and cuddle his head against my cheek. He would also follow me where ever I go. My cousin has one too and she actually potty trained the thing. I am not sure how but she would get the bird from the cage wait a second and put the bird back in the cage and it would poop. Then she would repeat the process every half hour or so.

You need to clean the cage 1 to 2 times a week (line the bottom tray with news papers). If you don't keep it clean then it will smell and it can make you sick(so I hear). You will need to take them to get their wings clipped every several months or so. If you have hard floors keep a rug under the cage so the seeds don't go all over the place. Cover the cage at night.

Hi P.,

I too am a big fan of Treetop Bird Center. We bought us a Parrotlet from there who is just so much fun to have around. They're VERY small smart parrots that can learn to talk over time but so far ours does not. However, their noise level is very tolerable and they are pretty low maintenance since they are small birds. Yes cleaning is a requirement with birds but since I'm a SAHM it fits into my schedule and it's really fairly easy. The bottom tray of birds cages slides right out and I just dump the seeds/mess into the trash and spray and clean it off in the sink. Probably takes no more than 10 minutes a day. I usually do this every other day. I have NEVER had a bird as a pet until now and I find them to be very nice enjoyable pets. I was VERY hesitant like you to bring in extra responsiblity to my house but it hasn't been bad. I have a 3 yr old son who is not allowed to hold the bird but the bird will sit on his shoulder and he just cracks up with excitement.......it's really cute so I'm sure with supervision, your son will get much joy out of having a pet bird. Stick to a smaller bird if you want low maintenance and if you're conerned about noise, try a canary, lovebird, parakeet or finch BUT I had a pet store tell me once that finches get VERY stressed when moved to new environments and sometimes don't survive the transition to a new home! : (
If you want good bird advice and a large choice of sweet birds to choose from, go to Treetop. I'm sure you can find what you're looking for there.
Hope you enjoy your new pet!

~V.~

I had a parakeet when i was a teen. They poop all over the wall.

I have to say that if you are not wanting to a primary caregiver to not get a pet at all till your son is older till or you have more time. All pets require maintenance to keep their living conditions sanitary as well as to have good socialization and not end up defensive. IF you are just set on getting him a pet at this age I would have to go with the Beta as well you will have to feed daily but only have to replace their water like once a week. Personally i would just wait until you are in a position to get a dog as your son will get much more out of this relationship versus a fish.

Hi P.,

I HIGHLY recommend you checking out Treetop Bird Center. I came across their website when I was searching for a pet bird and they hand feed and hand tame all of their birds. Yes, your 2 yr old may be to young to "handle" the bird but a bird is much more fun for a 2 yr old to have as a pet than a fish! I also wanted a low maintenance bird and ended up with a lovebird. They do require more attention but I give that to him daily. From your post, you sound like you would do best with a canary or parakeet but I think the canaries are much more quiet and they're very pretty. However, with time the parakeets can learn to talk. In order to keep your bird "happy" and not bored, buy two of them since they are flock animals. This does not mean they will become aggressive or territorial....especially in canary or parakeet. Cover their cages at night to help them sleep and keep quiet. Treetop has EVERYTHING you will need to buy to get started from starter cages to food and treats. So I would recommend trying Treetop first, they're staff will also help you in picking out the right bird for your families needs. They're also cheaper than what we've seen at other pet stores too and they do SO much more for their birds....it's really an amazing place. They're located in Dallas off of Coit and Arapaho. : )
http://treetopbirdcenter.com

Take care and let me know if you have any questions!

I would say no. I had a parakeet when I was little. They are dirty animals with seed, poop, and feathers everywhere. Plus, they create dust and live a LONG time. I would say get a fish or turtle.

I agree with Jodi. Birds are not low in the responsibility area. They are messy and can be loud. If you don't handle them enough they become protective of their cage and bite. They don't make good pets for young children, they are very easily injured and little ones tend to squeeze a bit too tight.

I have had many birds, starting as a teenager. I don't recommend to anybody unless there is a real love for birds. Birds take a lot of work, like daily cleaning to keep the cage sanitary. Their food ends up all over, feather go everywhere and their fine dust covers everything.

Sorry I don't have better news.

I second the beta fish for all the mentioned reasons!