DIY vs. Store-Bought Bird Toys: What’s Best for Your Parrot?
Bird toys play a crucial role in keeping parrots mentally stimulated, physically active, and emotionally engaged. But when it comes to choosing between DIY bird toys and store-bought options, which is the better choice for your feathered friend? Let’s explore the pros and cons of both to help you make an informed decision.
DIY Bird Toys: Pros and Cons
Many parrot owners love the idea of making their own bird toys. It’s a creative, cost-effective way to engage with your bird, but it comes with some potential risks.
Pros of DIY Bird Toys
Cost-Effective – Many DIY toys can be made from household items or inexpensive craft supplies, saving money compared to store-bought options.
Customizable – You can tailor toys to your bird’s size, preferences, and play style.
Eco-Friendly – Upcycling materials like paper rolls, untreated wood, and natural ropes can reduce waste.
Fun Bonding Activity – Crafting toys can be a great way to bond with your bird and observe what they enjoy.
Cons of DIY Bird Toys
Safety Risks – Many common household materials are unsafe for birds. Avoid zinc-coated metal, toxic woods, dyed or treated fabrics, and sharp or breakable items.
Choking Hazards – Small beads, frayed ropes, or loose knots can pose serious risks if swallowed.
Durability Issues – Homemade toys often wear out quickly, increasing the risk of accidental ingestion or injury.
Time-Consuming – Designing and constructing safe, engaging toys takes time and effort.
Common DIY Bird Toy Mistakes to Avoid
If you love making your own bird toys, be mindful of these common errors:
Using Unsafe Materials – Some woods (like cherry or cedar) are toxic, while plastic beads, glue, and painted surfaces can be hazardous if chewed.
Not Checking for Loose Parts – Strings, chains, and fasteners can unravel or break, potentially trapping a bird’s beak, feet, or neck.
Overlooking Durability – DIY toys should be sturdy enough to withstand heavy chewing. Weak toys can break apart quickly, creating a choking hazard.
Ignoring Supervision – Always monitor your bird when introducing a new homemade toy to ensure it’s safe for play.
Why Store-Bought Bird Toys Are Safer & More Durable
Professionally made bird toys, like those from PDS Parrot Shop, are designed with expert knowledge of bird safety and enrichment needs.
Benefits of Professionally Made Bird Toys
High-Quality, Bird-Safe Materials – Reputable bird toy makers use safe, non-toxic, and durable materials, ensuring your parrot’s safety.
Designed for Enrichment – Store-bought toys are carefully crafted to promote natural foraging, chewing, climbing, and problem-solving behaviors.
Built for Longevity – Professionally crafted toys withstand heavy beak action, reducing the risk of accidental ingestion.
Peace of Mind – No need to worry about hidden dangers—commercial bird toys meet safety standards that many DIY projects might overlook.
At PDS Parrot Shop, we handcraft bird toys using safe, imported wood, ensuring durability and enrichment for parrots of all sizes. Plus, every purchase supports our parrot rescue efforts, making store-bought toys a win for both your bird and those in need.
Final Verdict: DIY or Store-Bought Bird Toys?
A mix of both can be a great approach! DIY toys can add variety and fun, but professionally made toys offer safety, durability, and enrichment that homemade toys may lack. If you choose to make DIY toys, always prioritize safety by using non-toxic materials and supervising your bird’s playtime.
For high-quality, handcrafted bird toys that support both your parrot’s well-being and our rescue sanctuary, check out PDS Parrot Shop—where playtime meets purpose!
Explore our collection here: www.pdsparrotshop.com
What’s your parrot’s favorite toy? Let us know in the comments!
More articles about Bird Toys
How to Identify Unsafe Bird Toys | Bird Toy Safety Guide
Natural Bird Toys
Monika Sangar
Co-founder of Prego Dalliance Sanctuary, Artisan of PDS Parrot Shop
Monika Sangar, the co-founder of Prego Dalliance Sanctuary, a 501c3 non-profit organization, uses these blogs to share her hands-on experience with parrots.
She is a designer and artisan at PDS Parrot Shop, and her craft can be viewed below. (click on icon)
