Gooseberry Branches?

[Whizz]

I went to my local pet shop and was going to pick up my usual box of apple sticks that they sell.
But they didn't have any so I found myself getting another pack of braches - But their Gooseberry branches, and so was wondering if these were safe to give to my boys?

I've looked at various lists and Gooseberry is not listed in the 'not suitable' or 'toxic' section, but also not listed in the 'suitable' or 'safe' part. So am a bit confused!

Gooseberry is usually under 'fruit trees', as it makes a fruit - like a black currant. I've only found apple, pear and quince in the fruit trees suitable for Goos. :S

I was wondering about your opinions on Gooseberry branches and whether I should give my boys them or not as I can't find anything myself.. Any help?

[deguconvert]

Blackberry and blackcurrent are two very different species. I have no reason to think that the gooseberry would be problematic . . . but I would treat it with care. They may be fine . . . but if you do give them some, maybe be stingey with them rather than generous. I'll have a look at gooseberry bushes as well and see if there are any known properties to the bark that would steer you away from giving them to your degus.

[deguconvert]

Not a very successful search thus far. Most sites seem to focus mainly on the fruit, so no mention of toxins or other naturally occuring chemicals in the bark. So . . . it has to be your call and what you feel best about.