How Bad is Cedar, Really?

[scrambledmess]

Okay, DH was trying to be good. He bought a big beautiful dog house that he is converting into a small coop. I knew he was going to do something like this, but I wasn't exactly sure what it would be. I saw it in the yard when I got home from work this morning.... It looks like this:

http://images.lowes.com/product/converted/752113/752113052086md.jpg

Umm.. It is cedar and it is put together already. Which means I don't think we can take it back. And I think it would crush him for me to tell him we can't use it. Any suggestions?

There are windows on both sides that have chicken wire in place. There is also additional ventalation under the edges of the roof. Is taht enough ventaliation to make the cedar not toxic?

We will never have a reason to close up this coop for warmth. Even at our coldest it isn't below freezing.

 

[trilyn]

From what I've gathered reading other posts on cedar, it is the shavings that cause problems. Hope this helps!

 

[Poulets De Cajun]

It's actually the oils and stuff in Cedar shavings that are supposed to cause respiratory problems. With that being said, if you have adequate ventilation in the coop, and they aren't confined to the inside at all times, they should be fine. Cedar shavings are a little more dangerous because they roll around in them and the dust from the shavings can cause problems. I dont think the walls and structure would harm them.

 

[xtremevermonter]

I agree with the to posts above me. It seems that the shavings are the problem and not the actual wood which the chickens will leave alone. On the plus side, cedar is a rot and pest resistant wood that should last a long time outside. Your coop looks great!

 

[Pitchfork]

I used cedar 2x4's for the framing of my coop/run because of its rot resistance and it is lighter than treated lumber and not as subject to twisting and warping, as are a lot of treated wood.
Have seen no problems with the chickens.

 

[scrambledmess]

Thank you all for your replies. I feel much better now

 

[shawnkfl]

you could always paint the inside too. just say it's for easier cleaning

 

[scrambledmess]

We lined the bottom with plexi glass type things. I suggested painting it on the inside. We may still do that. Thanks again.