Toxicity of Brass Bird Cages

Although brass cages are attractive, bird owners should be aware that brass contains hidden dangers for their pets. Brass is an alloy made from zinc and copper, two metals with a potential toxicity for birds.

  1. The Danger

    • When a bird nibbles at cage bars, toxic materials may be ingested.

      Toxic cage materials become dangerous when a bird chews or nibbles on the cage bars, accessories or locks. This common behavior among birds results in the ingestion of potentially poisonous substances contained in the cage materials.

    Zinc

    • Because brass contains zinc, zinc toxicity becomes an issue when a bird ingests flakes or bits of brass or brass coating material. Zinc toxicity can lead to liver, kidney and pancreatic damage and is sometimes fatal.

    Copper

    • Copper is another metal in brass which is potentially toxic for birds. Although copper toxicity is not as common as zinc poisoning, copper nevertheless poses a threat when ingested.

    Symptoms

    • Loss of appetite, excessive thirst, depression, dark green diarrhea and, with large birds, vomiting are signs that a bird may have ingested unsafe levels of zinc or copper.

    Avoiding the Problem

    • Avoiding cage materials such as brass helps ensure a bird's health.

      To avoid the possibility of brass toxicity, bird owners should investigate a cage's materials before making a purchase. They should also take care to avoid cage accessories and toys which contain potentially toxic materials such as brass.