FINCHforum

Hey there,
I am currently using CareFresh for cage substrate but was wondering if I could switch to a less pricey option and use pine shavings for Beaker's cage. There is a grate over the bottom so he can't eat the shavings, but I'm worried about fumes. Currently, he's outside 24/7 on a patio balcony since the weather is nice. He is covered well with a thick blanket every night. Is this something I can use? I'm not a fan of newspaper since it's not as absorbent and my bird splashes water like crazy.
Thanks for your replies.

Pine or aspen shavings should be fine. Just stay away from cedar, because even though the bird doesn't come in contact with them, they still produce toxic vapos. Just for the record, I've always gone with newspaper. My birds also love to splash, but newspaper dries quickly. I always have a stack cut to the size of my cage trays and can switch it out in a few seconds if necessary. It also helps to have extra cage trays (one for each size cage you have) on hand to make the switching process even faster. Bob

Thank you, Bob! I like the idea of ordering an extra tray for changing the cage. I will try newspaper again...I just need a lot to cover the bottom since the cage is pretty big...but I agree, it's the cheapest and easiest to clean.

Kiln dried is absolutely fine...i use it in my aviary.