Metal toys ok for cockatiel?

My cokcatiel doesn’t play with any of his toys in his cage. he does however like my ring, paperclips, hairpins and the metal bead I put on the hairpin. I want to make him a toy of all this stuff. However, will the metal be harmful to his beak or is it ok? Please only answer if you actually know.

I’d give that a giant NO. It’s not harmful to his beak, but if it’s a soft metal that he can manage to shed a piece of and swallow, that can kill him. You can give him proper metal bird toy, but do NOT give him pieces of your own items. When he chews on those items, push him away gently and tell him “No” to help break him of the habit of chewing on your jewelry.

When an animal or even a human accidentally swallows metal, the condition that follows is called heavy metal intoxication, and it’s a deadly condition that’s EXPENSIVE to treat. I make bracelets for fun, and my cockatiel managed to swallow a jump ring. $1400 later, she’s okay and alive to this day, but she nearly died from it because her body was trying to metabolize the metal. Consult your avian vet for more details.

All birds like shiny things. Try providing him toys with shiny plastic beads. You can give him toys with metal from pet stores or bird outlets, but these metals are usually stainless steel and would be impossible for a cockatiel to swallow or shred. This toy, for example, would be acceptable: http://www.f3images.com/IMD/250/VP62161/VP62161_99.jpg

Do your research on proper toys for cockatiels, and best of luck to you!

Buckethead Toy Giveaway – Cain’s Ballroom – Tulsa, OK 11/11

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