Owning both a cat and a bird might sound tricky, but it’s totally doable with the right feathered friend and a bit of planning! Some bird species are better suited for homes with feline roommates—think calm, confident, and not too tiny. Birds like cockatiels, parakeets, and conures can adapt well when given their own safe space and lots of supervision during interactions. The key is making sure both pets feel secure and respected in their environments. With the right match, you can enjoy the best of both worlds—purring on the couch and chirping from the perch!
Budgerigar (Budgie)
Budgerigars, or “budgies,” are one of the most popular pet birds for a reason. These little bundles of energy are playful, social, and adapt well to living in homes with other pets, including cats. Their small size makes them easy to house in secure cages that cats can’t access. Budgies are naturally alert and quick, often keeping an eye on their surroundings—an important trait when living alongside a feline. Their cheerful chirping and bright colors add life to any room. Just remember, the key is a sturdy cage with proper locks, so your cat can look but not touch. With time, budgies can even recognize your cat as just another family member—though supervision is always the best policy.
Cockatiel
Cockatiels are a gentle, affectionate choice for homes with cats. They’re larger than budgies, making them a bit less vulnerable and easier to spot for your cat—reducing unwanted pouncing attempts. Cockatiels tend to form strong bonds with their owners and are often content to entertain themselves with toys and mirrors inside their cage. Their curious nature means they’ll be interested in watching your cat, but their cautious instincts keep them safe. With their impressive crests and soothing whistles, cockatiels bring a calming presence to any household. Secure perches and well-spaced cage bars ensure your cat can’t reach in, guaranteeing peace of mind for everyone.
Canary
If you’re looking for a bird that’s beautiful to watch and delightful to hear, the canary is a top contender. These birds are known for their melodious songs and radiant yellow feathers. Canaries are less interactive than parrots, preferring to keep to themselves—which can be a good thing when sharing a home with a cat. Their independent streak means they don’t demand much hands-on attention, and they’re perfectly happy in a safe, enclosed space where your cat can only watch from afar. Their flighty, nervous nature makes a secure cage absolutely essential, but with the right setup, canaries and cats can coexist peacefully.
Finch
Finches are tiny, lively birds that thrive in small groups and are a joy to observe. Their constant movement and soft, chirping songs bring a gentle energy to any home. Because finches are so small and fragile, a solid, escape-proof aviary is crucial—especially with a cat in the house. Luckily, finches are highly active but rarely attempt to leave their cage, minimizing opportunities for mishaps. Your cat will be fascinated by their darting flights and busy behavior, but with the right precautions, your finches will stay perfectly safe. Their low-maintenance personalities make them an excellent choice for bird lovers with feline friends.
Quaker Parrot (Monk Parakeet)
Quaker parrots, also known as monk parakeets, are famous for their intelligence and ability to mimic speech. These medium-sized birds are bold, curious, and sometimes a bit cheeky—traits that help them hold their own in a household with a cat. Quakers require a spacious cage with strong bars, as their curious beaks and your cat’s agile paws can sometimes create trouble. Their playful antics are entertaining for everyone, and with supervision, some even learn to coexist peacefully with cats, especially when introduced slowly and carefully. Their strong personalities mean they’re not easily intimidated, which can help deter overly curious cats.
Green-Cheeked Conure
Green-cheeked conures are known for their spunky attitude and affectionate nature. These small parrots are intelligent and playful, often forming strong bonds with their owners. Their outgoing personality means they’re less likely to be frightened by a cat’s presence, especially if raised in the same environment from a young age. A sturdy, lockable cage is still a must, as conures are notorious escape artists and cats are masters of curiosity. With bright green feathers and a knack for silly antics, green-cheeked conures can bring laughter and warmth to your home, even with a feline companion nearby.
Lovebird
Lovebirds are as endearing as their name suggests. These small parrots are famous for their strong pair bonds, either with another lovebird or their human owners. Their playful, inquisitive demeanor makes them a joy to watch, and their boldness can sometimes surprise even the bravest cat. Lovebirds are active and intelligent, loving to climb, chew, and explore their surroundings. This means they need a secure, cat-proof cage at all times. While they’re not as loud as some larger parrots, their vibrant personalities fill the room with energy, and their resilience helps them cope well with the presence of other pets.
Parrotlet
Tiny in size but mighty in spirit, parrotlets are packed with personality. These miniature parrots are fearless, often standing their ground—even in the face of a curious cat. Their diminutive size makes a robust cage with narrow bars absolutely necessary for safety. Parrotlets are highly intelligent and love to interact with their owners, often learning tricks or words. Because they’re so small, it’s easy to place their cage out of reach of a cat, perhaps on a high shelf or in a separate room when unsupervised. Their bright colors and feisty nature make them a captivating addition to any pet-loving household.
With the right precautions and a little extra care, enjoying both cats and birds under one roof is entirely possible. These eight bird species have proven themselves to be adaptable, resilient, and capable of thriving alongside feline friends. Would you have guessed these birds could live happily with a cat in the house?
Born and bred in South Africa, a Capetonian at heart. Amy-Leigh’s love for nature and animals was inherited from her Dad. He loves taking the family on road trips to experience nature at its finest; Amy-Leigh’s favourite being whale watching in Hermanus and spotting Kudu along the West Coast. Amy-Leigh holds a BA in English Literature and Communication Studies.
