What Bedding Is Safe for Guinea Pigs and Rabbits?

Choosing the right bedding for your guinea pig or rabbit is one of the most important decisions you will make as a pet owner. The wrong bedding can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, and painful foot conditions. The right bedding keeps your furry friend dry, comfortable, and healthy.

If you have ever wondered what bedding is truly safe for small pets, this guide will help you understand your options and make the best choice for your guinea pig or rabbit.

Why Bedding Matters for Small Pets

Guinea pigs and rabbits spend most of their time in their enclosures. Guinea pigs can be prone to getting painful and serious foot conditions if kept on wire or hard flooring so it is important to provide them with soft floor covering and bedding. RSPCA Victoria

According to the RSPCA Australia, solid floors covered with dust-free bedding such as paper, paper kitty litter, artificial turf, or other material of plant origin (e.g., hay) are preferred. Washable fabric mats are also suitable. RSPCA Knowledgebase

The key factors to consider when choosing bedding include absorbency, dust levels, safety for delicate paws, and ease of cleaning.

Safe Bedding Options

Recycled Paper Pellet Bedding

Paper-based bedding is one of the safest choices for guinea pigs and rabbits. Made from 99% recycled paper, back-2-nature’s flatter and ridged pellets allow for moisture to be absorbed rather than sitting on top of regular bedding, leaving the most delicate of feet dryer and less prone to irritations from standing in wet materials. Osbornesfarm

Paper pellet bedding offers several advantages. It is low in dust, which reduces respiratory irritation compared to hay or wood shavings. The flat pellet shape provides a stable surface that does not roll around, making it gentler on small paws and ankle joints. It is also sterile at the point of manufacture and can be composted after use, making it an eco-friendly option for Australian pet owners.

Washable Fleece Liners

Fleece liners have become popular among guinea pig and rabbit owners in Australia. They are reusable, soft on feet, and easy to maintain with regular washing. Suitable bedding includes hay, fleece fabric, and shredded paper. RSPCA

Fleece works best when layered over an absorbent material underneath. While the initial cost is higher, fleece liners can save money over time and reduce waste.

Hay Bedding

Hay serves double duty as both food and bedding material. As a general rule, a hutch lined with newspaper followed by grass hay will work for most types. RSPCA South Australia

However, hay is better used in a dedicated eating and burrowing area rather than as the sole bedding throughout the enclosure. It should be replaced daily to prevent bacteria and mould growth.

Bedding to Avoid

Not all bedding marketed for small pets is actually safe. Wood shavings should be avoided, as they can adhere to the guinea pig’s backside, causing irritation or obstructions. RSPCA Knowledgebase

Cedar and pine shavings are particularly problematic. They contain aromatic oils that can cause respiratory illness and liver problems in small animals. Sawdust is also too dusty and can irritate sensitive airways.

The wrong bedding for your piggies can have a negative effect on their health. Wood shavings, sawdust and straw can often contain mites and cause fungal and mange conditions and should be avoided. Guineapigalliance

Straw is another bedding type to skip. It is too coarse and can injure delicate eyes, and it does not absorb moisture effectively.

Keeping Your Pet’s Enclosure Clean

No matter which bedding you choose, regular cleaning is essential. Spot clean daily by removing soiled areas and replacing with fresh bedding. The bedding should be cleaned and changed as required (this is typically once a day). The enclosure should be thoroughly washed and disinfected once a week. RSPCA Victoria

In Australia’s warmer months, clean bedding becomes even more important. Damp and dirty bedding creates the ideal environment for bacteria and fungi to thrive, which can quickly lead to health problems for your pet.

Our Recommendation: Back-2-Nature Paper Bedding

For Australian guinea pig and rabbit owners looking for a safe, effective, and environmentally responsible bedding option, we recommend Back-2-Nature Paper Bedding.

This eco-friendly bedding is made from 99% recycled paper with no additives or chemicals. The unique flat pellet design keeps moisture away from delicate feet, while the low-dust formula is ideal for pets prone to respiratory sensitivities. It is also compostable, helping reduce your environmental footprint.

Whether you have a curious guinea pig or a playful rabbit, Back-2-Nature provides the comfort and hygiene your small pet deserves.

Looking for more ways to keep your small pet happy and healthy? Explore our full range of guinea pig supplies and rabbit essentials at WeLoveMochi. Your furry friends will thank you!