Quick answer
For most small pets, a sturdy plastic nest like the Crema 12 offers easy cleaning and a secure fit, while a steel feeder like the Sirio works best for parrots that chew. The FPI 4322 adds a perch for birds that like to sit while eating.
FPI 4322
Material matters: plastic vs. steel
Plastic nests are lightweight, easy to clean, and affordable—ideal for hamsters, guinea pigs, and rabbits that don't chew aggressively. Steel nests are more durable and hygienic for parrots or other birds that gnaw, but they can be heavier and colder in winter.
The Crema 12 feeder is made of sturdy plastic and is simple to assemble, making it a good choice for small exotics. The Sirio feeder uses steel, which resists chewing and is long-lasting, but it may feel chilly for a pet that likes to snuggle.
Size and mounting considerations
Nests come in different sizes—measure your pet's cage door and interior space before buying. A nest that's too large can crowd the cage; one that's too small won't provide enough room for your pet to turn around or hide.
All three feeders here attach to cage bars. The Sirio uses a hook, the Crema 12 has a practical fixing system, and the FPI 4322 includes a perch for birds that like to lean while eating. Ensure the mounting method works with your cage bar spacing.
Decision rules for choosing a nest
- Check your pet's chewing habits: If your pet is a chewer (parrot, rat), choose steel like the Sirio. For non-chewers (canary, hamster), plastic like the Crema 12 works fine.
- Measure cage bar spacing: Ensure the nest's mounting system (hook, clip, or perch) fits securely between the bars. The FPI 4322's perch needs enough clearance.
- Prioritize easy cleaning: Both plastic and steel are easy to wipe down, but steel is more scratch-resistant. If you clean daily, either material works; if weekly, steel lasts longer. Check if the nest is dishwasher-safe (most plastic is not).
- Consider temperature and insulation: Plastic nests retain a bit of warmth; steel can feel cold. Add soft bedding inside any nest to keep your pet cozy.
Product facts at a glance
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SIRIO: The Sirio feeder is made of steel, comes in three sizes, and has a hook for fastening. Steel is hygienic and easy to clean, making it ideal for parrots that chew plastic; the hook ensures secure attachment to cage bars.
SIRIO
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CREMA 12: The Crema 12 feeder is made of sturdy plastic, has a round shape, and includes a containing edge to prevent seed spillage. The containing edge helps keep the cage cleaner, and the plastic is lightweight and simple to clean for canaries and small exotics.
Which nest is right for your pet?
Best for
- Hamsters and guinea pigs that need a simple, easy-to-clean plastic hideout
- Parrots and other chewers that need a durable steel feeder
Not ideal for
- Pets that require a fully enclosed hideout (these are open feeders/nests, not igloos)
- Very small cages where a large nest might block movement
