What should be placed in a rat’s cage as bedding? - briefly
Use an absorbent, low‑dust substrate such as paper‑based bedding, aspen shavings, or kiln‑dried pine. Avoid cedar, pine, or corn‑cob bedding because they release irritating oils and excessive particles.
What should be placed in a rat’s cage as bedding? - in detail
Suitable bedding for a rat enclosure must be absorbent, low‑dust, non‑toxic, and safe for chewing. The material should retain moisture to control odor while allowing easy spot cleaning and full‑cage changes.
Paper‑based products such as shredded newspaper, recycled paper pulp, or commercially prepared paper bedding meet all criteria. They are highly absorbent, produce minimal dust, and are safe if gnawed. Paper bedding also decomposes quickly, reducing the risk of mold when kept dry.
Aspen shavings offer a natural alternative. They are free of aromatic oils found in pine and cedar, which can damage respiratory tissue. Aspen is moderately absorbent and provides a familiar substrate for burrowing, but it generates more dust than paper products.
Coconut fiber (coir) provides excellent moisture retention and low dust levels. It is biodegradable and encourages nesting behavior. Coir can become compacted if wet, so regular stirring and replacement of damp sections are necessary.
Hemp bedding combines high absorbency with low dust and a pleasant scent. It is safe for chewing and supports nesting. Hemp is more expensive than paper or aspen but offers superior odor control.
Corn cob bedding is inexpensive and absorbent, yet it tends to become brittle and may produce small particles that irritate the respiratory tract. It is best used in combination with a softer material.
Wood shavings other than pine or cedar, such as hardwood (e.g., maple or birch), are acceptable if they are kiln‑dried and low‑dust. However, they are less absorbent than paper or hemp and may require more frequent changes.
Practical guidelines
- Choose a bedding that can hold at least 1 cm of liquid per 100 g of material without clumping.
- Replace the entire substrate weekly; spot‑clean soiled areas daily.
- Provide a depth of 2–3 cm to allow nesting and digging.
- Store bedding in a sealed container to prevent moisture absorption before use.
- Avoid scented or chemically treated products that could irritate the respiratory system.
By selecting a low‑dust, absorbent, and chew‑safe substrate such as paper pulp, aspen, hemp, or coir, and maintaining regular cleaning routines, a healthy environment for pet rats can be sustained.