Inside my cage, along with the many other toys and accessories, was a packet of sand perch covers. I know that some people like and don't like these, so was wondering whether you guys think they are good or not. I could cover the perches so that they aren't all covered by the rough sand cover, so it wouldn't be like they are completely rough.

 

Thanks

Edited December 25, 200519 yr by lani

Personally I don't like sand perches, as I think it injures their feet. What does everyone else think?

I think most here are against them. I've never used them since I got and get wild branches that have many twists and bends to exercise their feet. But I have hear that they can rub and irritate the soles of the feet which can lead to infection.

I think they're okay but it's really important that you don't use them as either the main or the highest perch. :dbb1:

There is a picture of the exact perch covers at http://www.pennplax.com/Pages/Bird.pages..../Bird09F.html but I'm thinking I might leave them off. The perch spinners below the covers were also included with my cage :dbb1: they're pretty cute!

:ausb: I truly believe it injures their footsies in long term use but wouldn't hurt to put them in for a couple of days so you just don't have to throw them away. :dbb1:

If they've got a choice of unsanded perches, then they shouldn't harm their feet. Just don't replace them when you throw them out. And, don't forget you can use natural perches - a bit of grevillea or gum. Just scrub well, and bake in a slow oven, or leave in the hot sun for a few hours

I love those perch spinners! :dbb1: Blinkie has one on his play gym, doesn't play with it much but it looks cool. :ausb:

I have heard that the sand perches help keep their nails down. Is that a myth? If so, does anyone know of any other ways to keep their nails down? Thanks.

Their nails should be kept down from branch perches, and walking on surfaces around your home. Sand perches can cause a condition known as bumble foot.

How about a calcium/mineral perch. Mine love them. They work as a mineral block as well as sharpening their beaks and claws. They're usually tapered or of variable thickness to exercise their feet as well.

 

Try http://www.featheredpets.com to see if you can see what I mean. I'm sure I've seen them there before.

Edited March 26, 200619 yr by Janette

I got a pack with my cage too. I don't use them on the main perches but the small ones in the corner. I find the birds go down and chew off the grit every once in awhile. I don't add grit to their food, so I figure if they need it, there is a little there for them. But my main branches are poplar and dowel. I also have some cement and calcium - my cage is quite big so lots of room for different options.

I mentioned these perch covers to the vet when I had taken Pippin to have his nails trimmed. The vet told me not to use them as they can irritate their little feet. She told me the best thing for keeping their nails down is natural branches in the cage.