Ultimate Guide to Small Animal Bedding
Written by
John Williams
Reviewed by
Prof. David Walsh, Ph.D.The use of bedding for small animals affects their health through a combination of respiratory safety and comfort.
The needs of individual species require their bedding to be at different depths, depending on whether they hid because of burrowing or nesting behaviors.
Avoid bedding made from toxic materials, especially cedar shavings, and avoid scented bedding that is chemically treated.
Select bedding with high absorbency, such as paper bedding, which will keep moisture and odors in check.
When changing the bedding, always check for mold, dust, and anything that may act as a hazard or irritating during the bedding change.
Consider your pet's natural desires to chew things and their environmental needs when selecting appropriate bedding.
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Choosing the right small animal bedding is essential to your pet's daily comfort and overall long-term health and well-being. It enables your animals to express their natural behaviors, such as burrowing, nesting, or foraging, which keep them mentally stimulated. Bad bedding choices can contribute to health problems, whilst good bedding means a clean home for your small pet.
Hazardous bedding. Some bedding materials, when chewed, can cause internal or respiratory obstruction; alternatively, bedding materials, debris, or irritant substances (e.g., sawdust) may cause skin problems. Always research bedding first before committing!
Consider these three factors in bedding selection: Its suitability for the species in question and your animal's habits, whether it is 100% nontoxic and safe in use, and how much moisture it absorbs and controls odor.
Bedding Storage and Disposal
Store small animal bedding correctly. Items like paper or coconut fibre bedding require airtight containers to protect against moisture and pests. Original packaging is fine for short-term storage, but transfer opened bags to sealed bins for long-term bulk storage.
Coconut bedding - Coconut bedding needs to be 'put away' once used, as it absorbs humidity rather quickly. It should be kept in a cool, dry place, the further from sunlight the better. If coconut fibre gets damp, it not only loses its absorbency but may also start to go mouldy. Bags should be sealed and packed when not in use.
Compost biodegradable bedding like paper or coconut instead of trashing it. Layer soiled bedding with yard waste in your compost bin. Turn the pile weekly. Within months, you'll have nutrient-rich fertilizer for your gardens.
Whenever possible, opt for composting over traditional waste disposal. Composting used bedding improves soil quality naturally, without the use of chemicals. Putting ordinary waste into a landfill unnecessarily increases the amount of waste. Your plants will flourish on this organic fertilizer, and you will have reduced any environmental impact.
Composting
- Process: Mix paper/coconut bedding with green waste
- Breakdown occurs in 2-4 months depending on climate
- Produces nutrient-rich soil amendment for gardens
- Avoid bedding with urine/feces for food crops
Garden Fertilizer
- Application: Spread directly under bushes or in flower beds
- Works best with plant-based bedding materials
- Provides slow-release nutrients over 3-6 months
- Turn into soil every 4-6 weeks for faster decomposition
General Waste
- Procedure: Bag non-biodegradable materials securely
- Recommended for soiled synthetic bedding
- Double-bag to contain odors and moisture
- Check local regulations for pet waste disposal rules
Municipal Composting
- Procedure: Separate clean bedding from waste streams
- Many cities accept paper bedding in green bins
- Faster processing through industrial composting systems
- Verify local acceptance policies before disposal
Paper Recycling
- Guidelines: Only unsoiled paper bedding qualifies
- Remove any non-paper materials before recycling
- Follow municipal paper recycling guidelines precisely
- Contaminated paper may compromise recycling batches
Less Common Bedding Materials
Coconut bedding absorbs moisture more effectively than wood shavings; it holds 10 times its dry weight of moisture, whereas paper manages to have only about 8 times its dry weight. This natural product makes habitats drier for a longer period, requires less cleaning, and is thus most desirable in humid countries.
Be cautious of the hidden dangers associated with cardboard bedding. Inks and adhesives pose a toxic threat to animals, with substances like the poisonous glycol urilaphine accumulating in the organs over time. Always scrub cardboard thoroughly, and where possible, use unbleached, unprinted types of cardboard. There are safer options for critters that are likely to nibble on their bedding.
Grass mats do not perform well as primary bedding; they have practically no liquid absorption and are best used as an extra enrichment layer on top of functional bedding. Try not to use them with small rodent bedding that requires absorbent materials underfoot. Grass is suitable for rabbits and guinea pigs, but only as a temporary play area for them.
Which bedding for which pets? Always bear in mind the species' size, chewing habits, and behaviors. Coconut husk is an excellent bedding material for reptiles and other moisture-sensitive species. Cardboard is a suitable material for bedding for many rodents, but only if you can supervise them to prevent them from destroying and consuming it. Grass mats are available in various sizes, making them suitable for larger animals.
Coconut Bedding
- Absorbency: Highly effective moisture control, superior to many alternatives
- Eco-Impact: Fully compostable material that reduces environmental impact
- Species Fit: Suitable for rabbits and guinea pigs; use cautiously with rodents
- Application: Layer 7-8cm (2.8-3.1 in) using 5kg (11 lbs) per square meter
- Cost Analysis: Higher initial cost but extended usage period
- Storage: Requires protection from humidity in sealed containers
Grass Mats
- Function: Primarily for enrichment with minimal liquid absorption
- Safety Check: Must be pesticide-free and chemical-safe
- Durability: Moderate longevity depending on animal chewing habits
- Species Fit: Best for rabbits and guinea pigs; avoid for small rodents
- Installation: Use as supplemental layer over primary bedding
- Cleaning: Gentle hand-wash recommended to preserve fibers
Cardboard
- Toxicity Risks: Potential ink and adhesive hazards require careful sourcing
- Preparation: Clean thoroughly before use to remove contaminants
- Absorbency: Limited liquid retention needing frequent replacement
- Enrichment Value: Excellent for nesting and chewing activities
- Cost Saving: Economical option using recycled materials
- Species Warning: Avoid for birds and reptiles; better for rodents
Hemp Bedding
- Absorbency: Natural moisture-wicking properties with good odor control
- Dust Level: Low particulate matter suitable for sensitive respiratory systems
- Sustainability: Renewable resource with minimal processing required
- Species Recommendation: Ideal for rabbits, guinea pigs, and ferrets
- Cost Factor: Mid-range pricing with moderate longevity between changes
- Installation: Requires 5-7cm (2-2.8 in) layer for optimal performance
Corn Cob Bedding
- Absorbency: Moderate liquid retention with natural freshness
- Mold Risk: Requires dry environments to prevent fungal growth
- Safety Note: Avoid for animals prone to ingesting bedding materials
- Species Compatibility: Suitable for larger rodents and reptiles
- Environmental Impact: Biodegradable but slower decomposition rate
- Maintenance: Daily spot-cleaning recommended for hygiene
Bedding Safety Essentials
Cedar bedding contains phenols that are toxic to pets, severely damaging their livers and causing organ stress and breathing problems over time. Use aspen shavings or paper bedding instead for your furry friends.
Woolly cotton wool: easily presents a very deadly blockage hazard when ingested, actually tangling up in the intestines and requiring a rapid emergency op (I have looked after guinea pigs who have suffered dreadfully from this). Stick to their safer paper strips then for nesting material.
Straw bedding leads to injuries from the gouging of the mouth and skin with splinters. A rabbit I operated on! Lost his stitches when straw splinters embedded in his gum. Use soft hay, but only as supplementary bedding and NEVER as the primary material.
How risky are the airways to our pets? Cedar and unscented bedding. Its bedding and scented bedding are worse, and dusty hay triggers the worst reactions. Paper does not generally give off any dust from animal dander and produces the best price for breathing environments. Always check the dust levels in bedding before placing it in the habitat.
Toxic Materials
- Cedar/Pine Shavings: Release phenols that may cause liver damage
- Scented Products: Contain volatile organic compounds affecting breathing
- Inked Newspaper: Pigments can accumulate in organs over time
- Chemical Treatments: Flame retardants in fabrics pose health concerns
Physical Hazards
- Straw/Sharp Fibers: May cause mouth injuries requiring veterinary care
- Cotton Wool: Can form digestive blockages needing medical attention
- Frayed Fleece: Poses limb entanglement risks during movement
- Dust Particles: Triggers breathing difficulties in sensitive animals
Species-Specific Risks
- Rabbits: Paper bedding ingestion may cause digestive complications
- Chinchillas: Wood dust can lead to respiratory issues
- Hamsters: Synthetic fibers may tangle around limbs
- Degus: Cedar oils could contribute to liver problems
Prevention Protocols
- Material Testing: Check bedding for potential irritants before use
- Dust Audit: Examine for visible particles that affect air quality
- Chew Test: Assess material breakdown to evaluate blockage risks
- Odor Threshold: Avoid noticeably scented products
Emergency Response
- Ingestion Signs: Watch for lethargy, bloating, or appetite loss
- Respiratory Distress: Monitor for wheezing or labored breathing
- Immediate Actions: Remove bedding and consult a veterinarian
- Veterinary Preparation: Bring bedding samples for examination
Choosing Bedding by Animal Type
Bedding for Hamsters - Make sure hamsters, being burrowers, have very absorbent deep bedding layers, as ferrets, not being burrowers, don't need so much depth. Provide at least 15cm of paper-based bedding for diggers; surface dwellers do almost as well on a thinner layer of softer drugs.
"Fabric" bedding hazards vary from species to species. Rabbits and guinea pigs will chew fleece, creating deadly blockages, so use paper instead. Ferrets deal with this fabric quite well, but be mindful of any loose threads. Regardless, always supervise new bedding setups in case of chewing behavior.
There is variation in the respiratory sensitivity of different species of rodents. Guinea pigs and chinchillas need bedding materials that do not have dust, such as paper pellets. Rats tolerate a wider range of options, but they avoid scented products. Hamsters require low-dust bedding due to their limited lung capacity.
Minimal bedding depths are crucial to welfare. Hamsters need 15cm for tunnelling, rabbits 7cm for comfort, and guinea pigs 5cm for warmth. Measure the depth each week as bedding packs down, topping it up as necessary.
Rabbits
- Primary Bedding: Paper-based materials with high absorbency
- Supplemental Layer: Meadow hay for nesting and nutrition
- Avoid: Fleece (chewing hazard) and wood shavings (respiratory risk)
- Depth Requirement: Minimum 7-8cm (2.8-3.1 in) for burrowing enrichment
- Special Note: Elderly rabbits need additional insulation during winter
Guinea Pigs
- Primary Bedding: Paper pellets combined with loose paper bedding
- Critical Need: Extra hay piles for hiding and nibbling
- Avoid: Wood shavings (skin oil absorption) and scented products
- Moisture Control: Change wet bedding daily to prevent foot infections
- Setup Tip: Create separate sleeping and toilet areas
Hamsters
- Primary Bedding: Deep paper layers (10-15cm/4-6 in) for tunneling
- Enrichment: Cardboard tubes and hideouts for nesting
- Avoid: Cotton wool (blockage risk) and cedar shavings
- Burrowing Space: Minimum 30cm x 30cm (12x12 in) digging area
- Cleaning: Spot-clean daily, full change weekly
Ferrets
- Primary Bedding: Fleece liners in sleeping areas only
- Sleep Options: Hanging hammocks and enclosed sleeping sacks
- Avoid: Loose particulate bedding (respiratory irritant)
- Temperature: Maintain 15-21°C (60-70°F) with draft-free environment
- Setup: Multiple dark sleeping spots required
Pet Rats
- Primary Bedding: Shredded paper or aspen shavings
- Nesting Material: Paper strips and chemical-free cardboard
- Avoid: Scented products (olfactory sensitivity) and pine shavings
- Social Need: Extra bedding for group nesting activities
- Health Note: Retain some soiled bedding during changes to reduce stress
Core Bedding Properties
Absorbency also varies from one bedding material to another. Coconut fiber leads the pack with a capacity for 10 times its own weight in liquid; paper bedding holds 8 times its own weight, while aspen shavings absorb only 5 times their own weight. Test absorbency before buying by pouring some water on the sample and assessing the speed of drainage and saturation.
Odour neutralising systems vary according to the material; paper and coconut paper neutralise ammonia, while wood shavings only conceal the smell. Artificial fragrances irritate sensitive airways. Unscented, high-absorbency bedding is ideal for long-term use.
Comfort influences instinctual behavior. Bedding made from paper will allow your burrowing critters to tunnel beneath. At the same time, fleece provides a softer surface for them to sit on. Coconut fiber is better for insulation, but doesn't quite lend itself to nesting. Consider matching your pet's bedding texture to its instinctual needs (e.g., nesting, digging, burrowing).
Consider the cost versus the length of time it lasts. Coconut bedding is initially more expensive, but it lasts longer between changes. Paper is cheap but doesn't last long. Work out your cost or weekly budget, depending on how messy your pet/DIY cage is, for the most economical and hygienic solution.
Odor Control
- Best Options: Paper and coconut neutralize ammonia effectively
- Mechanism: High surface area traps odor molecules chemically
- Duration: Effective for 7-10 days with proper spot cleaning
- Poor Performers: Hay and straw absorb but don't neutralize odors
Comfort Factors
- Burrowing Quality: Paper and aspen allow tunnel construction
- Softness Rating: Fleece tops comfort but lacks functional depth
- Insulation Value: Coconut provides best thermal regulation
- Texture Preference: Most rodents favor paper's crinkly texture
Enrichment Value
- Nesting Potential: Paper shreds allow complex nest building
- Foraging Opportunity: Hay integrates food-seeking behaviors
- Chewing Safety: Cardboard satisfies gnawing instincts safely
- Exploration Depth: Minimum 15cm (6 in) depth for tunneling species
Practical Considerations
- Cost Efficiency: Paper offers best value per usage cycle
- Longevity: Coconut lasts longest between full changes
- Storage Volume: Compressed paper expands 3x when fluffed
- Eco-Impact: Coconut and paper are fully compostable
Species Alignment
- Burrowers: Hamsters need high-depth paper bedding
- Nesters: Rats require shreddable materials for construction
- Sensitive Species: Chinchillas demand dust-free options
- Chewers: Rabbits need safe alternatives to fabric bedding
5 Common Myths
Wood shavings offer an entirely safe bedding option for all species of small animals without any exceptions.
While aspen and kiln-dried pine shavings may be suitable for some species, cedar produces toxic phenols that can lead to liver damage in rodents. Small mammals such as hamsters and chinchillas have extremely sensitive respiratory systems, and will not tolerate the aromatic oils found in untreated wood. Even safe wood shavings should not be used for small mammals who have underling respiratory conditions such as rabbits and guinea pigs. Paper-based bedding offers a consistently safe alternative for most small animal species.
Fleece bedding is suitable for animals that like to chew on fabrics.
However, fleece can pose real risks for intestinal blockage when it is ingested by chewing animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs. Due to the nature of synthetic fibers, fleece does not break down in the digestive tract and may require emergency surgery to remove. It is important to note that lots of fleece works great for non-chewing pets such as ferrets, and fleece should never be used unsupervised for rodents and lagomorphs. There are other options that are much safer than fleece, such as paper bedding or hay. Hay and paper bedding will pass through the digestive system rather than causing complications.
Hay alone provides sufficient bedding material for small herbivores.
While hay is essential for dental health and digestion, it lacks adequate absorbency for primary bedding. Hay quickly molds when damp, creating bacterial growth environments that cause foot infections. As a supplemental layer, hay works best over absorbent paper bedding that controls moisture. Using hay alone forces frequent full cage changes and increases respiratory risks from mold spores developing within 48 hours of contamination.
Odor control is achieved through scented bedding products with no adverse health effects on small animals.
Scented products mask odors using volatile compounds that will irritate small animal's sensitive respiratory tracts and can lead to chronic inflammation that can cause irreversible lung damage over time. True odor control occurs with highly absorbent materials (eg. paper bedding, coconut bedding) that will chemically neutralize ammonia. Unscented bedding that is changed regularly is still a safer way to managing animal odor than exposing animals to artificial fragrances employed in scented bedding.
All small animal species can use the same bedding type.
Physiological needs of the animal species dictate specific bedding choices. For instance, burrowing hamsters will utilize deep layers of paper for tunneling; rabbits need a highly absorbent bedding for urination to avoid urine scalding; chinchillas need options that are free of dust to prevent respiratory issues; and, rodents such as rats prefer nesting materials that they will shred. The use of species-specific bedding can help avoid health issues ranging from bumblefoot to gastrointestinal blockages.
Conclusion
Your bedding choice for your small animal can either promote their health and comfort or lead to disease. Good bedding material allows them to burrow and make nests, activities that small animals instinctively enjoy. Look for bedding that caters to your little fur friend's needs, not just your own convenience, so your pet can truly flourish and thrive.
Keep these three bedding considerations well in mind! Select materials that closely meet your individual animal's requirements. They must be unassailably safe from toxins or physical dangers. Finally, they must be guaranteed to be effective for both moisture absorption and odor control. This combination will help you achieve a healthy environment.
Steer clear of assuming that bedding solutions work for every animal. Animals vary and have different needs that must be respected. For example, what benefits one hamster can hurt a rabbit. Each species has vastly different bedding requirements, so be sure to do your research before purchasing bedding.
Review your bedding choices whenever your circumstances change. If you add new pets, move to a new place, or change your cage setup, make sure to revisit the bedding guidelines. Seasonal changes may also require different bedding choices. Be flexible and remain attentive to ensure your animals stay comfortable throughout the year.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bedding for small animals?
The optimal bedding depends on your pet's species and needs. Highly absorbent paper bedding suits most rodents, while coconut fiber works well for reptiles. Avoid toxic options like cedar shavings and prioritize materials supporting natural behaviors like burrowing or nesting.
What materials should never be used for small mammal bedding?
You must avoid these dangerous materials:
- Cedar/pine shavings releasing toxic phenols
- Scented products with chemical irritants
- Cotton wool posing intestinal blockage risks
- Inked newspaper containing lead pigments
- Hay used alone due to mold growth
How often should small animal bedding be changed?
Frequency depends on bedding type and pet species. Perform spot-cleaning of soiled areas daily, with full bedding replacement every 5-7 days. High-moisture animals like guinea pigs need more frequent changes than reptiles. Always monitor for odor or dampness as primary indicators.
Can shredded paper be used as rat bedding?
Yes, shredded plain paper is excellent for rats. It provides safe nesting material they can shred for enrichment. Ensure the paper has no toxic inks or coatings. Combine with absorbent paper pellets for optimal moisture control in their habitat.
Why is species-specific bedding selection important?
Different animals have unique physiological needs:
- Burrowers like hamsters require deep, tunnel-supporting material
- Rabbits need highly absorbent bedding to prevent urine scalding
- Chinchillas require dust-free options for respiratory health
- Rodents like rats need shreddable nesting materials
- Reptiles benefit from moisture-retaining substrates like coconut
What are the signs of problematic bedding?
Watch for these warning indicators: sneezing/wheezing signaling respiratory irritation, lethargy suggesting toxic exposure, skin redness indicating allergic reactions, or reduced appetite potentially showing digestive issues. Immediately remove bedding if any symptoms appear and consult a veterinarian.
Can cat litter substitute for small animal bedding?
No, clumping or scented cat litter is extremely dangerous. It causes severe digestive blockages if ingested and respiratory damage from dust particles. Only use materials specifically designed for small pets, like paper pellets or aspen shavings.
What bedding properties prevent odor effectively?
Effective odor control requires:
- High-absorbency materials like paper or coconut fiber
- Ammonia-neutralizing chemical properties
- Adequate depth for liquid retention
- Regular spot-cleaning maintenance
- Avoiding moisture-trapping materials like hay
Is fleece bedding safe for chewing animals?
Fleece is hazardous for rabbits, guinea pigs, or rodents that chew fabric. Ingested fibers cause intestinal blockages requiring surgery. Only use fleece for non-chewing pets like ferrets, and always supervise its use even then.
How deep should bedding be for burrowing species?
Burrowers like hamsters need minimum depths of 15cm (6 inches) to support natural tunneling behaviors. Paper-based bedding works best for structure retention. Provide extra depth in designated digging areas to encourage species-specific enrichment activities.
