Guinea Pig Bedding - Separating the Safe From the Dangerous

Guinea Pig Bedding - Separating the Safe From the Dangerous
By Amanda Toop

Guinea pigs can be largely low maintenance pets provided one takes the time to learn a little guinea pig care. Many people do not take the time to learn what types of bedding are harmful and this oversight can hurt the health of your guinea pig. When choosing bedding also consider the material's ability to absorb, control odor, be easily handled and cleaned, as well as cost, and availability. While it is impossible to find bedding that is absolutely perfect, a combination of bedding can actually work out quite well.

Bedding that must be avoided:

Cedar shavings - are poisonous to guinea pigs due to the fact that they contain phenols which are caustic compounds. It is the effect of caustic compounds on the respiratory system after being breathed in day in and day out that causes most concern. Some also argue that this can cause the kidneys and liver to become strained as those organs are responsible for filtering out toxins.

Corn cob - Corn cob is frequently recommended as it can be an organic, natural product. What is frequently not considered is the fact that corn cob has a tendency to mold. Corn cob is also indigestible if consumed (and your guinea pig will more than likely consume.)

Pine shavings - Pine shavings are considered by many to be toxic as well. Unlike cedar however there is some controversy in that some experts feel the risk is lowered when used in a well ventilated area. The decision is yours to make but many people choose not to take the risk.

Straw -Straw can cause injuries as it is too rough. Straw is also not recommended as it lacks proper absorbency and odor control.

Wood pellets - Wood pellets are not necessarily a great choice as the material can contain additives such as flame accelerants, is extremely heavy (remember how much you need to buy as you will be cleaning the cage once per week), breaks down into sawdust when wet, and are too hard for one's guinea pig to run across with comfort.

Recommended Bedding: CareFRESH -CareFRESH is made from wood pulp that cannot be made into paper. The leftover wood pulp is sanitized to kill bacteria, mold and fungus, does not contain additives, and resembles shredded egg cartons.

Crown Pellet - Made from recycled newspaper compressed into pellets. Like wood pellets, crown pellet bedding can be quite heavy and hard, but in general is still well liked due to the fact that it is so absorbent, controls odor and lasts a long time. Due to its texture, layering softer bedding on top is recommended.

Timothy Hay - Timothy is widely recommended as guinea pig bedding due to the fact that it's a soft, natural product that has a nice scent. Timothy hay is also safe to eat and guinea pigs love building tunnels in the hay. While possibly hard to get in some areas, look in farm supply stores, gardening centers, and online.

Amanda is a lifelong guinea pig lover. For more great guinea pig bedding information, visit http://www.guineapigresource.com/guinea-pig-bedding-and-supplies/

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