Basic Requirements
So? You think you're up to planned parrothood? Alrighty then. Some things you will need:
*Cage-
A proper cage is very important. Not only does it have to be the right size, it must also be made from heavy enough materials that your new 'too can't tear it to pieces. Not just any run of the mill parrot cage will do. You want one at least 30 deep x 48 wide, but get the largest you can afford. The more room, the more we can stretch and play
*Food-
A pellet died, such as Roudybush which I eat, with some fruit, veggies and the occasionally nut thrown in is a good way to go. Some birds like the cooked diets as a special meal now and then. If your cockatoo isn't used to a pellet diet, it's a very good idea to get them on a pellet diet. Start mixing it in with their seed, more and more, until it's most of the mix. Just keep an eye on things to be sure they're eating it okay. We can be stubborn some times. A cockatoo on a seed diet is like a human on a solid Dorito diet. Good for a snack, but not to live on. Also, make sure you check out my deadly delicacies to be sure of what not to enjoy with your 'too!
*Toys-
And toys, and toys... Plenty of large parrot-approved toys. While acrylic toys are nice, for the most part make sure they're rip and shred toys for your cockatoos full chewing pleasure. You can purchase them at pet stores, or order them from various companies. Once you see how they're done, you may want to try a hand at constructing some of your own. Safe, clean, untreated, unpressurised, nonpoisonous woods, leather, even hard bagels make great chew toys. Your only limit is what your cockatoo chum likes, and their safety. Make sure your 'too can't become entrapped, entangled or hurt by anything on the toy.
*Avian Vet-
A good AVIAN vet is an essential part of keeping your cockatoo healthy and well over the years. From yearly checkups to medical care, and even grooming at times, only an avian certified vet is properly versed in taking care of such complicated creatures as us cockatoos, and even then it can be tough! So don't rely on just any ol' vet, they're as different as fur and feathers. Find a properly qualified avian vet. Often pet stores, breeders, and bird clubs can point you in the right direction.
*Travel Crate-
You will need some form of travel crate for when you transport your 'too. There are a variety of options for travel crates. Just be sure your cockatoo can't become entangled or cut in any openings and that there is nothing that can strike your 'too in the event of a sudden stop. (In other words, no swinging or loose objects. Consider the amount o time you cockatoo may have to spend in it. Short trips on occasion can warrant a simple dog crate, while a world traveler will want better accommodations such as a travel cage. There are a variety of options with many convenience features to make life on the road easier.
*Emergency Kit
With a rowdy bird like us, accidents happen. Having a birdie first-aid kit prepared can save stress on everyone. Clean bandages, some blood clotter to stop minor bleeding, bird-safe antiseptic, Q-tips, a clean towel, and a travel crate should all be on hand and easily accessible. Remember though, this is for minor incidents. Serious wounds, major bleeding, or any time your not sure you should call your avian vet, explain the situation and tell them when you will be arriving so they can be prepared and give you any advice on what to do until you arrive.