Bird Newbie Getting a Black Capped Conure

[MoLo]

Hello all! I have been learning so much reading this forum, I thought I would introduce myself. I have never had a pet bird, but always wanted one (or two ) . I have been doing a lot of research and was thinking of getting a Green Cheeks or a Black Capped Conure. I have been looking around at pet stores/parrot shops and found a Black Capped Conure that I am thinking of putting a deposit on. It is a very sweet male and didn't mind me touching and petting him a the store.

I am a little nervous because I have two cats at home. They are 5-6 years old, declawed and generally lazy (lol). I plan on never leaving them alone with the bird out of his cage. But I am wondering if the bird will be safe in his cage when I'm not home or if the cage needs to be in a separate room. I am ordering a nice quality (I think) cage on a stand.

 

[GaleriaGila]

I would say... separate rooms! At least for a lonnnng time, until you're confident the cats have no interest... or maybe forever. What a heartbreak it would be to have an accident. The cats could terrify the bird into a dangerous flap/tumble/injury just by jumping at it, claws or no claws. I could dream up other scary ideas, but that's enough for me!
You found a great site here. I'm still a little new and I love it!

 

[Flboy]

Welcome, always error on the side of safety!

 

[MoLo]

Thank you! I definitely will be very cautious!! I am a worrier for sure, my kids could tell you that, lol.

 

[Terry57]

Hello and welcome! I agree with the others about separate rooms
How exciting! Conures are one of my favourite species, they are so full of personality.
Please make sure to post pictures after you bring your baby home, whichever one that ends up being. Sounds like the BCC may be the one

 

[Scott]

Welcome, and thanks for joining! A great technique is to spend time with each possible bird, and let THEM choose you!

Of course sometimes the MBS* virus takes effect and it is just a matter of what order the birds arrive! Just to echo what others have posted, definitely keep the cats separated !

* Multiple Bird Syndrome!

 

[Printer bird]

Welcome! Conures are great, lots of fun, definitely need some training to keep up their manners. Yes, please don't ever let the cats and the bird hang out unsupervised, even if the bird is in a cage.