Yes, birds count as pets in many apartments. It depends on the specific rules and regulations of the apartment complex or landlord. Some places may consider birds as pets, while others may not.
About 2 out of 3 households in the United States have a pet. Of these households, about 1 in 10 have a pet bird. This means that there are about 6.1 million households in the United States that have a pet bird.
86.9 million (66%) of U.S. households own a pet as found in a survey by APPA National (2023-2024).
Birds don’t need as much space as dogs or cats, and they can be quiet if they are trained. But birds can also be messy and expensive to care for. If you are thinking about getting a bird as a pet in your apartment then this guide is for you.
Can You Have Birds in Apartments?
Some landlords allow all types of pets, while others only allow certain types, such as small or medium-sized birds. It is important to check with the landlord before you get a bird.
They may have a “no pets” policy or may charge an additional pet rent.
When talking to the landlord about having a bird, be sure to explain the benefits of owning a bird. You can also mention that birds are considered “caged pets”. This may make them seem less disruptive than other types of pets.
Ultimately, the decision to allow a bird in an apartment is up to the landlord. But by following these, you can increase your chances of getting approval.
Why Landlords May Not Allow Birds as Pets
We specified some general reasons, not all landlords will have the same reasons. It is always best to check with the landlord to see what their specific concerns are.
- Birds can be noisy if they are not properly trained. Neighbors can feel disturbed through their chewing, soiling, flying, and chirping loudly.
- Birds can make a mess. They will often drop food, feathers, and poop anywhere. This can be difficult to clean up and can attract pests.
- They can be destructive and damage property.
- Some people are allergic to birds.
- Birds can carry diseases that can be harmful to humans. This is a particular concern for people with compromised immune systems.
Benefits of Keeping Birds in Apartments
- Companionship: Birds can be very friendly and affectionate. They can also be taught to talk and perform tricks.
- Small space requirements: Birds don’t need a lot of space to live comfortably. A large cage that fits on a balcony or in a small corner of a room is enough for most species.
- Low maintenance: Birds don’t need to be taken for walks or have their litter boxes cleaned. They can get enough food and water in a small space.
- Health benefits: Owning a pet bird can have a number of health benefits. It is a great way to reduce stress, improve mood, and boost the immune system.
- Affordability: Birds are generally less expensive to care for than dogs and cats. They don’t require as much food, toys, or veterinary care.
- Easy to clean: Birds don’t shed fur like cats and dogs. They don’t need to be groomed as often. You can dust or vacuum their feathers, and their cages are easy to clean.
- Quiet: Birds are usually quieter than dogs and cats. This is important if you live in an apartment where noise can be a problem.
- Long lifespan: Many bird species can live for many years. They can be a pet for a long time.
- Variety of breeds: There are many types of birds to choose from, each with its own personality and traits. This means that people who live in apartments can find a bird that fits their needs and lifestyle.
Things to consider before getting a pet bird in an apartment
- Birds need regular interaction and stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
- If you work long hours or are often away from home then a bird is not the best pet for you.
- Some bird species need large cages, such as macaws and cockatoos.
- Some bird species can be quite noisy, especially parrots. If you live in an apartment with thin walls or close neighbors, this could be a problem.
- Parrots are quite noisy. It is a wise decision to avoid noisy birds.
- Birds are messy eaters, bird poop can spread disease.
- Petting a bird without a cage can result in property damage.
- Many bird species can live for 10-20 years. It is important to be prepared for a long-term commitment if you get a bird.
- Birds need regular attention and care. If you are not able to provide this, a bird may not be the right pet for your lifestyle.
Issues with neighbors and apartment management
Breach of lease: Some apartment complexes have strict rules about what kinds of pets are allowed in units.
Damage to Property: If your bird damages a property that is bad enough, you might lose your security deposit or have to pay other fees.
Eviction: In the worst cases, breaking the lease repeatedly or getting complaints from neighbors can lead to being kicked out of the apartment.
6 Low-Maintenance Birds That Are Perfect for Apartments
- Budgies (also known as parakeets) are small, colorful birds that are native to Australia. They are known for their playful and social personalities. They are relatively quiet birds and a good choice for apartments. It takes low maintenance for first-time bird owners.
- Canaries are small, yellow birds that are native to the Canary Islands. They are known for their beautiful singing voices. They can be a bit more high-maintenance than budgies. This bird requires a special diet and a humid environment.
- Finches are small songbirds. They are known for their chirping and singing. Different types and colors of finches are popular among bird owners. You can choose it without any confusion.
- Cockatiels are medium-sized parrots that are native to Australia. They are known for their friendly and playful personalities. They can be noisy, but they can also be trained to be quiet. This bird requires a bit more space and attention than budgies or canaries.
- Senegal Parrot: Senegal parrots are small parrots. They are known for their gentle and affectionate personalities.
- Lovebirds are small parrots that are native to Africa. They can be a bit aggressive towards other birds, so they should be kept in pairs or groups.
FAQ
Are birds considered pets when renting?
Yes, birds are generally considered pets when renting an apartment. But you should check the lease agreement and any other rules and regulations set by the apartment management to make sure you can keep a bird.
What bird is best in an apartment?
Canaries, finches, and budgies are good choices because they are small and don’t make as much noise as larger birds like parrots.
What are the pros and cons of having a parrot in an apartment?
The good things about having a parrot in an apartment are that they are smart, can bond with their owners, and have fun personalities. They can be good company, and you can teach them to do tricks or talk.
The bad things about having a parrot in an apartment are that they make a lot of noise, they can be destructive if they don’t get enough attention or stimulation, and they need a lot of space for their cage and play area.
Some parrots can live for decades, so their owners need to be ready to take care of them for a long time.
I am a writer and blogger who is passionate about birds. I write to inspire and educate others about the beauty and importance of avian species in our ecosystem. I love to watch birds flying and taking their photographs to capture those memories.
