Is fleece bedding safe for chewing animals?

Fleece bedding can cause serious health issues for any animal that chews on fabric, including rabbits, guinea pigs, and rodents. If ingested, fleece will clump into dense masses in their digestive tract, creating an obstruction that prevents food from passing through and, therefore, requiring emergency surgery to remove. Only non-chewing pets, such as ferrets, can safely use fleece bedding, and this method is only effective if the pet is supervised at all times.

Intestinal obstructions resulting from fleece ingestion are a medical emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention. The fibers can grow and expand, becoming internally tangled and creating an obstruction that cannot pass. Major signs include loss of appetite, lethargy, and abdominal swelling. The average cost of emergency surgery to treat this disruption is between $1,200 and $2,000, underscoring the importance of prevention.

Ferrets can use fleece, but do so safely with the following precautions in mind: Fleece must be tug, tug tightly to keep from loose edging, check around seams and edges for fraying at least once a day so that that piece can be replaced at once. Never use fleece without giving ferrets a litter area, fleece itself isn't absorbent. Even with ferrets, pull all fleece out if any chewing is noted.

For animals that chew, use digestible options such as paper or aspen. They break down when eaten and prevent the animal from becoming obstructed. Paper bedding also fulfills instincts to nest. Always provide plenty of hay to ensure safe and satisfying chewing.

If you are changing from fleece, make sure to transition with caution. You will want to replace your bedding gradually over 5 to 7 days. Start with small quantities of the new bedding mixed into the old bedding. Monitor your pet for stress to ensure they will accept the new bedding texture.

Read the full article: Ultimate Guide to Small Animal Bedding