Are Oxbow's timothy-related products: mats, tunnels, etc.

[Jenk]

I'm wondering how safe it is to feed a bun a hay product that's wrapped in plastic that contains one of those preservative packets in it?

In the past, I have allowed my bun crew to have access to an Oxbow timothy hay mat, letting them chew on it for a period of time during the day. (I would remove it if they seemed to be munching it to the exclusion of the loose hay in their litter boxes.)

I recently bought an Oxbow timothy hay tunnel with the intention of giving it to our girl Emma, but I lost my nerve when I found the preservative packet in it. (I'd forgotten that the package would contain one.)


Thank you,

Jenk

 

[naturestee]

Was it one of those silicone packets? Those just absorb water, so no worries about contamination. They probably use them because they make the toys in big lots and store them for longer than hay for food purposes.

 

[Jenk]

naturestee wrote:

Was it one of those silicone packets? Those just absorb water, so no worries about contamination. They probably use them because they make the toys in big lots and store them for longer than hay for food purposes.

I'm not 100% certain of what it is. (Did I forget to mention that I already threw the packet away--and, then, had second thoughts about the safety issue? ) I only know that it was a small packet similar to those that come in aspirin bottles and such.

I suppose it could be a silicone packet designed to absorb moisture, since Oxbow's hay-made items are wrapped and stored for God-knows-how-long.


Jenk

 

[Watermelons]

Ah their totally safe, just dont eat them
But think, at least the company is spending the money to put those in their products to make sure everything stays mould free and safe for your critters!

 

[Jenk]

Watermelons wrote:

Ah their totally safe, just dont eat them

I will try to restrain myself from doing so.

But think, at least the company is spending the money to put those in their products to make sure everything stays mould free and safe for your critters!

I think you're right: the packets are meant to prevent moisture and, thus, mold formation inside of the packaging.

 

[Korr_and_Sophie]

Maybe let it air out for a couple days before giving it if you are concerned. That should hopefully allow anything to dissipate from the item before being given and eaten.

I don't think it should be an issue, but your rabbits are more sensitive than most, so better be safe than have something happen.