The best cage liner for most pet birds is plain, unprinted paper. This includes butcher paper, parchment paper, paper bags cut to size, or simple paper towels. Paper liners are cheap, easy to replace daily, and allow you to monitor your bird's droppings for changes in color, consistency, or volume, which are critical early indicators of illness.

Newspaper is also acceptable if printed with soy-based inks, which most modern newspapers use. Avoid glossy magazine pages or circulars, as these may contain harmful chemical coatings.

Cedar and pine shavings should be avoided entirely. These softwoods release aromatic phenols that irritate a bird's sensitive respiratory system and can cause liver damage over time. Even kiln-dried pine, while safer than raw pine, is not recommended for birds by most avian veterinarians.

Corn cob bedding is another poor choice. It holds moisture, promotes mold and bacterial growth, and can be ingested by curious birds, potentially causing crop impaction. Walnut shell bedding has similar mold risks and its sharp edges can injure delicate feet.

Some owners use cage grate liners or washable cage pads made from fleece or cotton. These are environmentally friendly since they can be laundered and reused, but they require frequent washing to prevent bacterial buildup.

For birds kept in aviaries or flight cages with solid floors, aspen shavings are a safer wood option than cedar or pine, though paper remains the gold standard. Sand and gravel substrates are occasionally used for ground-dwelling species like quail but are not appropriate for parrots.

Change the cage liner daily. A fresh liner each morning takes seconds and is one of the simplest ways to maintain a hygienic environment for your bird.