Conure has labored breathing

Question
Can the use of a pine cat-type litter cause breathing problems for conures and other small parrots and budgies.  Have you ever heard of the use of this type of litter as a bird cage absorbant?

Answer
No, I do not recommend using any kind of cat litter for birds (unless it is 100% paper based maybe). Pine can cause respitaritory problems for small animals and birds alike.

I also do not recommend using corn-cob or walnut shell bedding (promotes bacteria growth like crazy, and the birds love to put it in their mouths).

The recommended litter is just plain, black and white newspaper. I layer the bottoms of my cages 7 to 14 layers thick, then I remove the top (dirty) layer every morning when I clean their food and water. Then you only need to wash the actual tray every week or two.

I hope this helps.

-Maggie