A Clean Cage Means A Happy Critter

There are many different types of bedding you can choose to use for your little ratties. Some are designed for maximum absorption, and others to cover and eliminate odors. According to the Rat Care Guide, Cedar and Pine shavings or chips are types of bedding that can be harmful to your rat’s respiratory system. You should avoid using cedar or pine beddings in order to keep your rat healthy. The dust in clay cat litter can have the same affect. Although there are many types to avoid, there are also many safe alternatives to these types of bedding. They also note that aspen is one type of wood that will not affect your rat’s respiratory system. The first type of bedding I used was pellet bedding made from recycled newspaper. It was safe for my rats, the environment, and it locked in moisture and odor all in one. I have since switched to CareFresh which is made of paper pulp, because we also have guinea pigs, and it tends to help absorption in their cages. If your rat is very sensitive to beddings, you can use old t-shirts or cloth instead.