American Singer Show Cages

The American Singer show cage is descended from the old metal "shelf cage" that was common in pet shops years ago. This cage was 11 inches wide, 7 inches deep, 10 inches high. The right side is solid metal, the top and other sides are wire. Some older cages have the solid side on the left, these are allowed. Today, new cages are manufactured to the same dimensions by Prevue Hendryx and Jovaco Inc.

Anyone can order cages from Jovaco, Click Here for more information.

American Singers Club members can purchase cages directly from Prevue Hendryx in lots of 3, $73.50 plus shipping for 3 cages. Phone (800) 243-3624 to order.

Here is a direct link to model LP, which is the shelf cage used as the American Singer show cage, not a "breeder" cage as labeled by Prevue.

The new cages come with plastic "torpedo" tube drinkers and feeders, which are allowed in the shows. However, most exhibitors spread the cage bars and insert hooded glass or plastic cups. Glass cups are no longer made, but can sometimes be found in antique shops or from retired bird breeders. Plastic cups are available as clear (as shown in the above photo) or frosted.

New clear plastic cups (model L375) are available from:

• Aviary & Animal Pet Supply, 5405 Wolf Creek, Powderly, Texas 75473
  (903) 785-2636 or (800) 780-2636
• Cliffords (716) 822-3278
• Abba Products Corp. P.O. Box 122, Elizabeth, NJ 07207
  (908) 353-0669

Plain, white paper must be used to line the bottom tray. Unlike colorbred and type canary showcages, seed is not dumped on the bottom.

Click Here for an article about show cage preparation.

The show cages are too shiny when new and the birds might sing to their reflection in the solid side. Before using, they should be spray painted a dull silver color. An extra coat of silver paint inside the cage base and on both sides of the bottom metal sheet (which goes under the cage tray) will help prevent rust. It is no longer required that the front of the bottom tray be painted silver, but you will not be penalized if you do. Be sure to use non-toxic, lead-free paint. Allow paint to dry and the cages to air out at least one week before putting a bird in. Buff off any dry paint powder with a rag before using.

Show Cages Getting Spray Painted

Return to ASC Home Page