Eclectic Daydreams

Graehstone

Pet birds are getting sick on well-meaning Christmas presents.

Veterinary practices are reporting an increase in the number of pet birds with heavy-metal poisoning and other injuries sustained by eating parts of toys.

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) says lead, zinc or copper poisoning is one of the most common problems its members are seeing at bird clinics.

Many birds like bells and metal chains but the galvanised and copper bells and chains are toxic if the birds lick or chew them, AVA president (birds) Dr Alex Rosenwax says.

"Painted toys and metal keys are also often toxic," he said in a statement.

"Unfortunately, many parrots seem to find them quite tasty."

Dr Rosenwax said he had also seen numerous cases lately of birds suffering from blockages after chewing on rope toys or perches where tassels have become lodged in their stomachs or throats.

"Many of our birdowners are worried about plastic, however, most hard, unpainted plastic ladders and balls are fine to use in cages," he said.

"The problems come if the plastic toys such as balls have metal bells inside.

"Many parrots will eventually split the plastic ball open and chew on the metal insert."

Dr Rosenwax said mirrors were generally safe but old-fashioned mirrors with lead edges were poisonous.

"Plastic milk container tops are also usually safe and many birds love to play with them," he said.

"Many newer toys are wood painted with vegetable dyes and providing the wood has had no chemical treatment, these are generally safer to use."

http://news.theage.com.au/christmas-toys-making-pet-birds-sick/20080107-1kjm.html