The cage bottom substrate affects daily cleaning ease, your ability to monitor droppings for health changes, and overall cage hygiene. Simple, flat liners are recommended by avian veterinarians over loose substrates.

Plain Newspaper

Unprinted or lightly printed newspaper is the most cost-effective liner option. It provides a flat surface that makes droppings clearly visible for health monitoring. Modern newspaper ink is soy-based and non-toxic. Change daily for optimal hygiene.

Paper Towels

White paper towels provide the best visibility for monitoring dropping color, consistency, and frequency. They are absorbent and easy to change. The cost is higher than newspaper but the convenience and monitoring benefit makes them popular.

Cage Liner Paper

Pre-cut cage liner paper or butcher paper provides clean, flat coverage. Cut to size and store in stacks for quick daily changes. Brown paper bags cut flat work similarly and are an affordable alternative.

What to Avoid

Pine and cedar shavings emit aromatic oils that damage bird respiratory systems. Corn cob bedding harbors fungal growth and conceals droppings. Sand and grit substrates make dropping monitoring impossible and can be ingested. Cat litter is toxic if ingested.

Grate Use

Cage grates elevate birds above their droppings, reducing contact with waste. Use grates in combination with liner paper below. Some birds enjoy foraging on the cage bottom, in which case a grate may need to be removed or food placed on top of the grate.

Cleaning Routine

Change liners daily as part of your morning routine. Weekly deep cleaning of the cage tray with bird-safe disinfectant prevents bacterial buildup. Dry the tray completely before replacing liners to prevent mold growth.