Introducing new Toys.

[casper]

Most of our Greys love to play with toys. These can be toys they can destroy, puzzle toys, musical ones which play a tune or make a sound when the bird touches a button, acrylic toys which are more difficult to destroy, foot toys, hanging toys, the list is endless! Many members of the forum also like to make their own toys as well. One thing is for sure, no matter what toy you choose they are an important part of your companions life! Not only do they promote exercise, they relieve boredom and provide entertainment for our loved ones.

How many toys should I have in my birds cage? This can vary due to the cage size and owners choice. On average, I normally have 3-5 toys in the cage. Each grey has their own toy basket and I rotate the toys every couple of weeks just to make it more interesting for the boys. I also do this with their playstands.

No matter which toys you choose for your Grey, always check the suitability. Most stores or websites will normally add a size guide to check if it will be suitable for your bird. If in doubt make sure you ask before you purchase. Dont be tempted to save some money by buying the smaller size! The guide is put there for a reason!

Make sure that all toys are attached to the cage securely. Check all fasteners are closed and there are no fraying ropes. This must be done on a daily basis. If the toy is damaged in anyway, it must be removed for your birds safety.

When purchasing toys or making your own, make sure the fasteners and chains are made of stainless steel and are zinc free.

If using a stuffed toy for your baby, make sure it contains fabric and not small beads.

Any toys you dont feel sure about leaving in the cage for example rope toys, put these in to a seperate play basket and only use these for supervised playtime only.

Introducing new toys should be done slowly and over a period of time. Your grey may be nervous or fightened of these new objects.

* Leave the toy at the opposite side of the room to the cage. Every few days, move the toy a little closer, play with the toy then put it back in the same place.

* Once your bird gets more confident and seems to relax a bit more, if your bird seems ready, try and hang the toy on the outside of the cage. Increase the length of time each time you place it there. Always remember to move the toy before the bird goes back into the cage.

* Gradually introduce into the cage, this can be done by leaving for a few hours when you will be able to supervise.

* Slowly increase the time in which you leave the toy. Hopefully if this is done in stages, your grey will feel at ease with the new toy and will accept it into their cage.

Remember, each Grey is different,some will accept new toys without any problems, others may take a few weeks.

The important thing is to make it fun for your grey!


Caroline.

[judygram]

Caroline, this is a well thought out article written for the new owners of greys that will help them with their toy selection, heck it is even helping me as we all need reminders from time to time, thanks for going to the trouble of doing this for our members.:P B)

[she]

Yes, thanks Caroline. I am sure many members will find this very useful.Charlie falls in to the catagory of being totally freeked out by new toys and it usually takes 2-3 weeks to introduce most toys to him. Ironically its the toys I think he will be fine with that take the longest.

[casper]

Many people have been asking about introducing new toys to their greys.

This thread is just a quick read and may help those who have a grey which may be a bit nervous when introducing new toys or anything else new within the family home

[willotree]

is it okay to have toys already in their cage from the time you get your bird? especially if the bird is very young and will see the toys all the time? willo will need 4-5 hand-feedings a day.

[willotree]

thanks for all the great info on toys! new here and i love love this site.

[Talon]

is it okay to have toys already in their cage from the time you get your bird? especially if the bird is very young and will see the toys all the time? willo will need 4-5 hand-feedings a day.

Yes, you should have some toys in the cage. Make sure they are small since your bird will be small. Save the big ones for later. I have a 6 yr old tag, and she only likes small toys still. She won't touch a big toy, sometimes I buy her parakeet toys and she loves them! Cheaper too!