Cage bottoms can be home to many uninvited guests–from deadly parasites like E. coli and Salmonella bacteria to mites, ticks, and fleas. It is important to keep your bird’s cage clean, but it is equally important not to use the wrong type of cage bottom material to ensure that you don’t create an environment for these undesirables in the first place!
5 Things To Look For When Buying A Bird Cage Mat:
Durability
One of the main reasons bird owners like to use newspapers, paper towels, or shredded paper as cage bottoms is that they are easy to clean. However, when you put these materials in an environment where they can become damp–like in a bird’s cage–they don’t last long. Bacteria, molds, and fungi feed on organic matter like this (just like we do), which can make your pet very sick.
Material – Cotton Is Best!
Cotton is preferable to any other material for three main reasons: It resists molding, absorbs moisture slowly, and has natural anti-bacterial properties that inhibit bacterial growth.
Mattress Style With A Polyurethane Cover
If you have birds prone to feather plucking, it’s best to choose a mattress style with a polyurethane cover. This will allow you to easily remove and replace the top layer if there is any damage from excessive clawing.
No Seams or Holes!
Avoid cage bottoms with sewn-in liners; this can be a breeding ground for mold and bacteria–especially in a damp environment like a bird cage bottom. If you select a product with a liner, make sure it doesn’t have any holes or seams through which mites may enter.
Don’t Use Newspaper Or Cardboard In Your Bird Cage!
In addition to breeding potential health threats, material like this can also cause serious foot problems for birds that need to stand on it all day long.
Take your time in selecting a Bird Cage Mat. Do not pick the first one you see, but instead ask for help choosing the right one. If the store does not have any staff members knowledgeable about birds, go to another pet supply store or online retailer where you can purchase the mat. If you feel overwhelmed by all of the choices out there, start your search with our inventory of birdcage mats that you can find online.
As always, when caring for your feathered friend(s), remember safety first! Be sure to keep your bird’s environment clean and safe from anything that could make them sick–like bacteria or mold. For example, when changing their bottom liner, try using a spray cleaner like Bird Soap, which helps prevent dirt build-up!
