Caring For The Wellbeing Of Small Animals With Quality Animal Bedding
Much like larger, farm animals, small animals benefit from a well-cared for environment. While their hutches, cages and coops are much smaller than a stable or barn, it is still important to properly maintain these, helping to care for their wellbeing, health and safety. In this article, discover the best types of animal bedding for small animals and some great tips for taking care of their environments.
Small Animal Bedding
There’s a wide variety of animal bedding that can be used for small animals. From wood shavings to paper and straw. However certain types of animal bedding are much better and easier to maintain for small animals.
Different Types Of Small Animal Bedding
Here are some of the most common types of small animal bedding and why they are beneficial for your furry friends.
Wood Shavings
Wood shavings are a popular choice for many small animals, including rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs and rats. They provide good insulation, absorb moisture well and can be easily obtained from pet stores or farm supply shops. However, it is important to choose untreated wood shavings as treated ones may contain harmful chemicals that can be toxic to your pets.
Paper Bedding
Paper bedding is another commonly used type of bedding for small animals. It is made from recycled paper products and offers great absorption capabilities, making it easy to clean up any messes. It is also dust-free, making it a great option for animals with respiratory issues or allergies.
Straw
Straw is often used as bedding for farm animals, but it can also be suitable for small animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs. It provides good insulation and allows for natural tunnelling and burrowing behaviour. However, straw can be messy and may not absorb moisture well, so it may need to be changed more frequently.
How To Look After A Small Animal Cage or Hutch
With some of the following tips you can ensure your small animals’ home is always well-maintained and well-cared for to ensure a happy and healthy life.
- Be sure to clean their bedding regularly. From weekly cleans to monthly deep-cleans, your animal’s bedding should be cleaned and replenished on a regular basis to ensure a hygienic environment for your small pets and to minimise build-up of dirt and the spread of bacteria. This is particularly essential if your small animal’s cage is kept inside or within your home.
- Choose the right type of animal bedding for your small animal. From rabbits to guinea pigs and hamsters, each type of small animal and breed will have their own needs. It is important to research the breed of animal that you own to ensure you can cater to their specific needs and characteristics.
- Carry out spot cleaning on a daily basis, if you can. While weekly and monthly cleaning is most important, you can also carry out spot cleaning and daily checks of the cage or coop to ensure the animals are still happy and healthy. Thriving in a clean environment.
- Look out for signs of discomfort. If your animals are not happy in their living space they will show you in some way. Whether this is a small change in their general behaviour or just by refusing to eat and drink, these small signs may signify that a change is required within their living environment. Perhaps they are not comfortable with your choice of bedding or the space is too small for them. As with any pet, you should research and pay close attention to their behaviours in order to ensure they are happy in their new home.
