There are many bedding options out there, but not all are appropriate for chinchillas. For example, pine shavings are generally considered safe for animals, but not so for chinchillas. Some pine shavings can contain a resin that when ingested will harm a chinchilla.
The best option we've found are aspen shavings. These shavings provide the same benefit as pine, come in bulk so the price is low, and are not harmful to chinchillas in any form. We've also tried a recycled paper bedding. This product appealed to us because it was recycled material and very absorbent. However, on too many occasions we saw our chins eating the paper which raised concerns that there may be digestive issues down the road.
Our chinchillas are pretty good about using their bedding rather than urinating outside their cage.
Your nose will tell you when it is time to change the bedding. The frequency will also depend on how much bedding you provide and in how large an area. In the interest of easy cleaning, we use a relatively small bedding box that is about 1' x 2'.
Entries (RSS)
December 20th, 2006 at 4:46 pm
Hey, I tried that carefree bedding and my chinchilla seemed to like to eat it too. It must be a chinchilla thing, but I'm very worried because I've been using pine and I just found out that it is bad to use it. So if my chinchilla is not showing symptoms and seems to be happy, should I be worried? I plan on changing bedding but need to know that he's going to be OK.
Thanks
August 5th, 2006 at 9:16 pm
Cody,
We've tried a few types of bedding and have settled on aspen wood. It shouldn't matter who makes the bedding as long as it is pure aspen. Our chinchillas don't eat the aspen bedding. And yes, if your chinchillas are eating their bedding you should try something else as it can be harmful.
August 5th, 2006 at 4:21 pm
Hello again. I have bedding by the name of Orchard Grass. My chinchillas seem to like it but always eat it. Is this harmful? And if it is, can you provide a better brand?