Posted by PHGaia on August 05, 2002 at 23:32:49:
In Reply to: Re: Epoxy-coated cages posted by PHGaia on August 05, 2002 at 23:24:26:
Meredith, I don't recommend anything other than stainless steel or powdercoated cages for macaws. You will not be happy with the epoxy covering, long term. I hate to tell you that some birds chew more than others and all you can do is be vigilant. I had a B&G who thought he was a cockatoo and made it his life's goal to remove all coatings from whatever cage he was in. Needless to say, he now resides in stainless and his owner considers it to have been a good investment. If you see signs that he is chewing, you will need to remove him right away. You also need to find out what kind of epoxy so that you can address any potential hazards. The manufacturer of the cage should be able to provide that information. If not I would pass as the potential danger to your macaw isn't worth the savings on the cage. You can provide plenty of interesting toys, etc. but you may not be able to keep him from chewing the epoxy coating. It's your call but I don't recommend it. Sorry.
::Thanks Ash!
::I was looking at a temporary caging situation until we could get a cage better suited for him. I really appreciate your help!
::Slainte!
::Meredith
:::Meredith, I housed my B&G in an epoxy-coated cage for six months and saw little wear and tear on the cage. I am doubtful that a small amount of epoxy ingested would be harmful, HOWEVER, an epoxy-coated cage will not stand up to the abuse a macaw will give it over the years. Even powder-coated cages eventually get worn down, but it will be at a much slower rate than epoxy. If you're using the cage for transport, vacationing, or a weaning cage, you shouldn't see a problem.
:::~Ash
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