What should be used to line the bottom of a rat cage? - briefly
Absorbent, low‑dust bedding such as paper pellets or aspen shavings is recommended for the cage floor. Avoid cedar or pine shavings, which can release harmful oils.
What should be used to line the bottom of a rat cage? - in detail
The floor of a rodent enclosure must be covered with a substrate that absorbs moisture, controls odor, limits dust, and prevents injuries. Ideal choices include:
- Paper‑based bedding (e.g., shredded paper, cellulose pads). High absorbency, low dust, easy to replace, biodegradable.
- Aspen shavings. Soft, low‑resin, minimal respiratory irritation, good for nesting.
- Corncob pellets. Moderate absorbency, low dust, long lifespan; may become hard when dry, requiring periodic replacement.
- Hemp or flax fibers. Excellent absorbency, natural antimicrobial properties, low dust; more expensive.
- Recycled wood pellets (non‑cedar, non‑pine). Provide structure for burrowing, good odor control; monitor for splintering.
Materials to avoid:
- Cedar or pine shavings. Contain aromatic oils that can cause respiratory distress.
- Cat litter. High silica content, sharp particles, and chemical additives pose injury risks.
- Dusty or fluffy bedding (e.g., cotton, wool). Increases respiratory load and can cling to fur.
For solid‑floor cages, a thin layer of paper bedding placed over a removable tray simplifies cleaning and reduces contamination. Replace the substrate entirely every one to two weeks, or sooner if soiled. Regularly inspect for clumps, mold, or broken particles that could harm the animals.
In summary, select a low‑dust, highly absorbent, non‑aromatic substrate such as paper or aspen, adjust depth to 1–2 cm, and maintain a strict cleaning schedule to ensure a healthy environment for the rodents.