Why is species-specific bedding selection important?
Written by
John Williams
Reviewed by
Prof. David Walsh, Ph.D.Choosing species-specific bedding prevents discomfort and even disease, and encourages species-appropriate behaviours. Rabbits require different materials than hamsters: their whole bodies and lifestyles are entirely different. Occupying an environment better-suited to one's physiology is more comfortable and reduces the physical stressors that lead to disease.
Respiratory Systems
- Chinchillas have sensitive alveoli requiring dust-free bedding
- Rats develop mycoplasma from ammonia buildup
- Reptiles need humidity control for lung function
- Hamsters suffocate in high-dust environments
Locomotion Patterns
- Burrowers need compressible tunnels
- Surface walkers require joint support
- Climbers need non-slip substrates
- Nesters require malleable materials
Waste Management
- High-urine animals need ammonia neutralizers
- Herbivores require frequent spot cleaning
- Carnivores need odor-masking materials
- Omnivores benefit from layered systems
Burrowing species, like hamsters, aren't happy without a digging area that has some depth. They are naturally driven to create complex tunnels in their underground burrows. Provide paper bedding at least 15cm deep in the places where they will be allowed to dig in (this prevents them from chewing on bars and attempting to escape due to frustration).
Rabbits and other animals like them all need [highly absorbent bedding],a lot of urine is produced in their bodies, much more than in rodents. If bedding doesn't absorb the urine, the animal ends up with burned skin, followed by sore hocks, as we often see. Aspen shavings work much better than paper for pets with high urinary output.
Chinchillas need a dust-free bedding due to their sensitive respiratory systems. Even minute particles can irritate the airways, resulting in long-term breathing problems. Paper pellets provide the cleanest setting, preventing the lung damage associated with wood shavings or hay-based alternatives.
Watch your pet's natural tendencies before buying bedding; rats shred paper, and reptiles burrow into it to regulate their temperature. Use materials that suit these instincts to reduce stress and prevent your pet from shredding the inside of its cage. They are visibly content when bedding is what they instinctively want to do!
Read the full article: Ultimate Guide to Small Animal Bedding
