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Alternative Bedding?

TheBirds

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This question relates to alternative bedding aka cage liner material :D Is anyone aware if coconut coir or coconut husk fiber is safe for birds? Or cork chips, for that matter? Both are often used for reptiles.
 

Mizzely

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So the issues with those are same as any litter for birds

- They retain moisture and have a lot of surface area which can create great places for bacteria to hang out

- They do not allow a good way of monitoring droppings, which are often the first signal your bird is sick

- Litters tend to make us believe we don't have to clean the cage as often; dried fecal particles that get airborne (from wing flapping, etc) are then breathed in by person and bird and can cause health issues for both.
 

Zara

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You know, I used to use bird sand when I first got my own bird. I probably used it for 1.5-2 years, but after having two cages for a few months the bill was getting out of hand. Not to mention it would all get stuck to the tray and made for more cleaning. Honestly I have to laugh when I think back how ridiculous. I bet I spent a fortune on it.
Paper all the way! Cheaper, can monitor droppings and fallen foods and in general (as far as parrots go) a lot less messy. I wouldn´t even consider anything other than paper now.
 
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