Bedding

Bedding is more than a floor covering in a small-pet cage: it absorbs urine, controls odour, cushions feet and lets species such as hamsters dig and nest naturally. The wrong choice, on the other hand, can cause respiratory problems and skin irritation.

Which bedding suits whom?

• Dust-extracted aspen or spruce shavings: affordable and absorbent; choose dust-extracted products.
• Paper-based bedding: almost dust-free, highly absorbent and ideal for animals with allergies or sensitive airways.
• Pelleted bedding: very effective for odour control in rabbit litter trays.
• Straw and hay: an extra layer for rabbits and guinea pigs to nest in and nibble.

Avoid cedar and aromatic pine shavings. The volatile oils (phenols) behind their strong smell can harm the delicate airways and liver of small animals. Fluffy synthetic nesting material is also best avoided, as it can cause gut blockages and wrap around limbs; use shredded paper instead.

Hamsters do best with bedding at least 15–20 cm deep so they can tunnel. For rabbits and guinea pigs 5–8 cm is enough. Removing wet patches every day reduces how often you need to change the whole lot and prevents ammonia from building up. For rabbits that use one corner as a toilet, pelleted bedding in that corner and soft paper bedding elsewhere is both economical and hygienic.