Gemma wrote:
> does anyone else worry about ink and dyes in cardboard, I never give this
> type of stuff to my gerbils as I wonder if they would get ink poisoning or
> summat. i stick to plain packaging materials and only tissues for bedding
and
> ive never had any trouble.
This has come up before in the GML and there are some ground principals that
you can put into practice that will ward off dangers to your Gerbils:-
Firstly, if the ink from the packaging comes off on your hand then it is
best avoided (This would include newspapers, magazines and poorer quality
cardboard).
Secondly, avoid packaging that has been kept in a freezer because this could
have wax applied to ward off moisture present in frozen conditions. Wax
would prove harmful to your Gerbils if consumed.
Thirdly, avoid anything that has had eggs contained within, including egg
boxes because of the possible threat of salmonella poisoning.
Fourthly, avoid anything that has had strong substances contained within.
This would include tea, coffee and chocolate containers because the
materials contained within these products could harm Gerbils and will
impregnate the cardboard.
By no means does this cover all of the dangers, but common sense should
always prevail. It does leave many forms of cardboard that will provide
your Gerbils with lots of fun! All the very best,
David Hinsley,
www.gerbils.org
