If your parents are fine with the birds, but not okay with the rat or hamster or other small furry creature. Then, you need to abide by their rules. You will be out and in a place of your own and can get whatever creatures your heart desires. When I was able to, I got a horse. I couldn't have one of my own, although they did help me with riding lessons when I was young.
Remember, your parents are trying to do what they believe is best for you. Also, there may be financial issues - as far as the expense of lots of bird toys - that may be the real reason that they say "you need to spend your money on it" - theirs may well be all accounted for with the mortgage and car payments and other expenses of running a house.
Also, to be able to find a way to get things either by working for the money or to figure out how to make them yourself inexpensively is an excellent skill to learn while young. It is great that they think you are responsible with your great bird care.
They DO want you to be happy and content.
Remember, your parents are trying to do what they believe is best for you. Also, there may be financial issues - as far as the expense of lots of bird toys - that may be the real reason that they say "you need to spend your money on it" - theirs may well be all accounted for with the mortgage and car payments and other expenses of running a house.
Also, to be able to find a way to get things either by working for the money or to figure out how to make them yourself inexpensively is an excellent skill to learn while young. It is great that they think you are responsible with your great bird care.
They DO want you to be happy and content.