Are Powder-Coated Cages OK for Birds?

Powder coating is a strong hard finish that binds better than paint and can withstand a lot of wear and tear before chipping. The material, a thermoplastic or heat-set polymer is applied as a powder with an electrostatic charge and is heated to a high temperature to create the durable, smooth finish. Powder coat is commonly used on bird cages.

  1. Older Cages

    • Powder-coated cages that were made in the 1970s or earlier may contain high levels of zinc in the coating. The zinc is not a problem while the paint is intact, but if it starts to separate from the metal base and the bird ingests it, he could become ill. Because these cages are so old, there is a greater chance that the paint has been damaged or has started to flake, chip or peel.

    Newer Cages

    • Cages built since the mid- to late- 1970s are powder-coated with a paint that contains very little zinc. Besides stainless steel bird cages, newly built powder coated cages are considered one of the safest types available. Most unpainted metal cages, especially ones made with galvanized wire, pose a danger to birds. If a bird chews on the bars, he may ingest rust and zinc, both of which can make him ill.

    Quality

    • Not all powder-coated bird cages are created the same. If the metal is not prepared properly before the powder coat is applied, it will chip and flake easily. Powder coat can also come loose along poor welds, often at the bottom of the bars. Additionally, if metal is allowed to rust prior to application of the coating, it won't adhere properly. No standards exist for cage construction, but generally, brand-name cages manufactured in the United States are built using methods that ensure strong powder coating adhesion. Inexpensive imported cages are more likely to pose a danger due to improper manufacturing methods. Look for strong, clean welds and cages that have a long warranty or that are made by manufacturers known for their quality.

    Steel vs Galvanized Wire

    • Powder-coated bird cages should be made from steel only, so that if the coating does start to chip, the metal underneath will not harm your bird. Some inexpensive cages, however, are made with galvanized wire. Not only does the galvanized wire become weak with proper preparation for powder coating, but if the coating comes off, your bird will be exposed to the zinc in the wire.