PetSmart Parakeet Guide & Prices 2026
PetSmart is one of the largest pet retailers in the United States, and they carry a solid selection of parakeets for people interested in bringing home a feathered companion.
If you’re considering a parakeet from PetSmart, you’ll want to know what to look for, how much they cost, and what supplies you’ll need.
Key Highlights
- PetSmart parakeet prices typically range from $20 to $35 depending on color variation and availability.
- You’ll need a cage, food, toys, and perches, which add $100 to $300 in initial setup costs beyond the bird itself.
- Parakeets from PetSmart come with a health guarantee, but it’s important to inspect the bird for signs of good health before purchase.
What Are Parakeets and Why Choose Them
Parakeets, also called budgies or budgerigars, are small colorful parrots native to Australia.
Why Choose Them
They’re popular pet birds because they’re affordable, relatively easy to care for, and can live 10 to 15 years with proper care. Many people choose parakeets as their first bird because they don’t require the same level of commitment as larger parrot species.
Parakeets can learn to talk, whistle, and perform tricks.
They’re social birds that need daily interaction and mental stimulation. If you’re looking for a bird that’s active, interactive, and affordable, a parakeet might be a good fit.
PetSmart Parakeet Availability and Selection
PetSmart typically has parakeets available year-round at most locations.
Availability varies by store and season, so calling ahead is smart if you have a specific color preference in mind.
Common colors include blue, green, yellow, and white, though some stores carry rare color mutations like opaline or pied varieties.
The birds sold at PetSmart come from breeding facilities and distributors. Each bird goes through a basic health screening before being put on the sales floor.
PetSmart Parakeet Prices
The cost of a parakeet at PetSmart generally falls between $20 and $35.
➤ Standard color varieties like blue and green tend to sit at the lower end of this range, around $20 to $25.
➤ Less common colors or specific mutations may cost slightly more, up to $30 or $35.
Prices can vary by location and current inventory. It’s worth checking PetSmart’s website or calling your local store to confirm current pricing.
Occasionally, PetSmart runs promotions or discounts on pet birds, so timing your purchase right might save you a few dollars.
Health Considerations Before Purchase
Before you buy a parakeet from PetSmart, spend time observing the bird you’re interested in.
Look for clear, bright eyes and smooth feathers. The bird should be active and alert, not sitting quietly in the corner. Avoid birds that appear fluffed up, have discharge around the eyes or nose, or show signs of labored breathing.
A healthy parakeet will be curious, move around the cage, and interact with you or other birds.
PetSmart offers a health guarantee on parakeets, typically lasting 14 days.
If your bird becomes seriously ill shortly after purchase, you can return it under this guarantee. Keep your receipt and any documentation they provide.
Total Initial Investment
The bird itself runs $20 to $35, but your total first-time cost will be higher.
Investment
A reasonable breakdown is cage ($50 to $150), perches and toys ($30 to $50), food and dishes ($30 to $50), and miscellaneous supplies like cage liners and cleaning products ($20 to $30). Your initial investment will likely fall between $150 and $315 before you bring your parakeet home.
After the initial setup, monthly costs are much lower.
Veterinary care for parakeets is inexpensive compared to larger pets, though annual checkups are recommended.
Housing and Cage Setup
The cage is your parakeet’s primary living space, so it needs to be properly set up.
Place the cage in a room where your bird can see family activity but away from the kitchen, where cooking fumes can harm birds.
Direct sunlight is good, but make sure the bird has shaded areas to retreat to.
Include multiple perches of different diameters. Natural wood perches are better than plastic because they help maintain healthy foot muscles. Add toys like bells, mirrors, and chew toys to keep your parakeet mentally engaged. Rotate toys monthly to prevent boredom.
Keep the cage away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioning vents.
➤ Room temperature should stay between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
A cage cover helps the bird sleep undisturbed and improves its sense of security at night.
Diet and Nutrition
A parakeet’s diet should consist primarily of high-quality pellets, which provide balanced nutrition.
Avoid seed-only diets because they’re high in fat and lack essential nutrients. PetSmart carries several brands of quality pellets, including Harrison’s, Zupreem, and Kaytee.
Vegetables and Fruit Guide
Fresh vegetables should be offered daily. Good choices include leafy greens, carrots, broccoli, and sweet potato. Avoid avocado, chocolate, salt, and caffeine, which are toxic to birds. Small amounts of fresh fruit like apple or banana are fine as occasional treats.
Change water daily and wash the water dish regularly to prevent algae and bacterial growth.
A cuttlebone or mineral block provides calcium, which is especially important if your parakeet is female.
Lifespan and Long-Term Commitment
Parakeets typically live 10 to 15 years with good care, though some live into their 20s. This is a real commitment that spans years, not months.
Before buying a parakeet from PetSmart, make sure you’re ready for a pet bird that depends on you for daily care, interaction, and veterinary attention.
Consider your life plans. If you’re likely to move frequently, travel for extended periods, or have major lifestyle changes coming, a parakeet might not be the right pet.
These birds form bonds with their owners and don’t do well being rehomed repeatedly.
Where to Buy Supplies at PetSmart
PetSmart is a one-stop shop for parakeet supplies.
You’ll find cages, perches, toys, food, treats, and cleaning products all in one place. Their website lets you check local inventory and order supplies online for in-store pickup or delivery.
PetSmart also offers services like pet grooming, though this applies mainly to dogs and cats. For parakeet-specific questions, the store associates can usually provide basic guidance, though they may not be bird experts.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions, but also do your own research through bird-focused resources.
Quick Summary
A PetSmart parakeet costs between $20 and $35, making it an affordable pet option.
Your total initial investment will be $150 to $315 when you factor in cage, supplies, and setup costs. With proper care, nutrition, socialization, and veterinary attention, your parakeet will be a healthy, interactive companion for 10 to 15 years.
