Using Rubber/Foam exercise mat in nest boxes

[C Siena]

I was given Aeromat, exercise mats that I thought I would cut for the bottom of the nest boxes. Then I will put straw on top as they like straw.

I am asking to make sure they would not be harmful. They are, from the website

• Made with NBR closed-cell foam, free of latex and phthalates

I thought I would wash/rinse them off about every 2 weeks or sooner if needed. I can get more every 6 months as the gym replaces them. Does anyone think they would be harmful?

 

[Sefirothe]

Foam = chicken crack

They will eat it. Insulation foam. Pipe foam. Styrofoam. They love it all.

 

[thecatumbrella]

Seconding the above. Some hens really like to work the material in the nest box, which means they could start breaking into the foam.

 

[C Siena]

Dag. I may try it in one box. We have a lip on the box, so 2-3" of straw on top. Usually when I put fresh straw in the boxes, they do not kick it out but add more as they get comfy. I also use my hand to make it rounded before they get in. Oh well. Thanks for the advice.