Artificial grass for foraging?

reeisconfused · Jan 12, 2019

I was at the pet store today and I saw that the cockatiels there had an artificial grass mat at the bottom of the cage with their food scattered over it. They were foraging and chirping away happily. I know cockatiels are ground foragers and I was wondering if this is safe?

I think Honey would love it but I’m not very sure about safery...

Thank you.

SailBoat · Jan 12, 2019

If the artificial grass 'mat' is made in China or in the far east in general, I wouldn't trust it as there is little to no way to know what chemicals had been used to make, treat and package it.

Using this kind of product requires detailed cleaning as there is no question that the Parrots will leave poop here and there in the mat and everything else deep down into the weave of the mat. A good vac cleaning with get most of the fine crumbs and larger dry food out of it. But wet food will require deeper cleaning.

If one has an aggressive and detailed cleaning program in place and the mats are North American or European manufactured, I can see the Parrots having fun with it.

Scott · Jan 13, 2019

I purchased artificial grass for my backyard several years ago. Many brands tout the recycled nature of the product, so I'd be very leery of nasty substances. Many contain contain recycled tires, have lead and other harmful products.

Link with downloads at bottom: https://oehha.ca.gov/risk-assessment/fact-sheet-environmental-health-study-synthetic-turf

Certainly possible pet-friendly products exist!

Artificial grass for foraging?

reeisconfused

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