Alternatives to Conventional Rat Bedding

Rats love to sleep on cardboard, but there are several alternatives. Cardboard is a versatile substrate that is easily manipulated. Rats will also use it to line their nests. Some rats may not appreciate pine shavings, which contain volatile chemicals that exacerbate respiratory issues. If you are looking for an alternative, try kiln-dried pine, which is available in large bales.

Hard pellets work great for litter pans, but they are hard and heavy on the feet of a rat. Soft tissue can be a better choice for the floor of the cage. However, soft tissue can easily disintegrate into a soggy mess. Rats are also sensitive to scent, so it’s important to choose bedding with no added scent.

Another option for bedding is paper. Paper doesn’t need to be thick or fluffy. Instead, it can be cut into strips or randomly shredded. If you own a paper shredder, you can even run the pieces through it before placing them in the cage. This will make the process of changing bedding easier.

Cloth bedding is another great alternative to conventional cage bedding. You can use old clothes, fleece, or fabric diapers. Make sure to choose a fabric that is not prone to unraveling. Also, avoid choosing bedding with long strings, as long strings could get caught around the appendages of young rats, and may cause them harm.