Bedding Question

[bhoffman]

OKay, so we have been using straw for the bedding in our hutches and cages. WHich is totally fine. But I have been reading a lot into different beddings.. something softer than straw, as I have hear that shavings are not good for them.

So, I have been tearing up used paper etc. WE do not have a shredder.. YET!!

My question is, would you keep using the straw or switch over to shredded paper.. or maybe use both?? Any input would be fantastic. Money is not the issue.. as we get the straw free...and the shredded paper.. well that is obviously free as well.. it is recycled..

Thanks

 

[ldoerr]

You can use aspen wood shavings. Those are perfectly safe. I use Kaytee Soft Granule Blend. http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_s...e+soft+granule+blend&sprefix=kaytee+s,aps,179. I love it and so do my rabbits.

 

[majorv]

I've used straw beforeand I still use it sometimes on the bottom. I usually use hay for the upper layer, which isn't as rough. The doe will mix her hair in with it, whichsoftens it more.

 

[bhoffman]

Okay then. Sounds good to me. Maybe I will use the paper for litter training the kits when they are old enough then!

 

[Korr_and_Sophie]

Are they inside or outside?
If they are inside, then they should not need straw in the cage since the house should be warm enough. Towels, fleece or other similar fabric is good and can be reused for a long time.
If they are outside or in a place that is not temperature controlled (like a shed or barn), then they do need extra insulation in the winter. Right now, they should be fine with some shredded paper and a bit of straw. In the winter, they should have more straw and hay to keep warm.

Straw is good for keeping warm as the shaft is hollow which allows it to hold warm air.

 

[Nancy McClelland]

We've been using Kiln dried pine for more than 10 years. Drying removes the phenols which is the toxic element. Cedar is the really bad one and is not usable for bunnies at all.

 

[majorv]

I think what it comes down to is - what your preference is. Some things not to use, but several things available that you can use. I used to use straw and shavings but the doe, more often than not, scratched it all out and the shavings ended up wasted. Whether mine are inside or outside, warm or cool weather, I start the nestbox the same way. What the doe does with it is up to her. I only provide hay after that because it's cheaper to replenish.