10 Options: What To Put In Bottom Of Rabbit Cage?
Line the bottom of the rabbit cage with soft bedding, such as hay or straw, to provide a comfortable and cozy environment for your furry friend. This helps absorb moisture and provides a warm, cushioned surface. Avoid using cedar or pine shavings, as they can be harmful to rabbits.
What to Put in Bottom of Rabbit Cage? – 10 Best Beddings
Choosing the right bedding for your rabbit’s cage is essential for their comfort. Proper bedding helps to maintain a clean and hygienic environment, prevents odor buildup, and provides a soft and comfortable surface for your furry friend to rest on.
The 10 (ten) best bedding options are suitable for the bottom of your rabbit’s cage.
1. Hay
Hay is a natural and widely recommended bedding option for rabbit cages. It provides a soft and comfortable surface for your rabbit to rest on while also serving as a source of food and fiber. Timothy hay and orchard grass hay are popular choices among rabbit owners due to their high quality and low dust content. Hay is readily available at pet stores and can be easily replaced when soiled.
Benefits:
- Comfortable Surface: Hay creates a cozy and cushioned surface, allowing your rabbit to hop and rest comfortably in their cage.
- Edible and Nutritious: Beyond its use as bedding, hay serves as a nutritious food source, promoting dental health and supporting your rabbit’s digestive system.
- Reduced Odors: Hay’s natural absorbency helps control moisture and minimize unpleasant odors in the cage.
- Encourages Natural Behaviors: Rabbits enjoy nibbling on hay, promoting natural foraging behaviors and mental stimulation.
How to Set Up:
- Layering: Spread a generous layer of hay on the bottom of the cage, ensuring a soft and even surface for your rabbit.
- Top-Ups: Regularly check and top up the hay to maintain a comfortable and clean environment.
- Quality Matters: Choose high-quality hay to ensure your rabbit gets the best comfort and nutrition.
2. Straw
Straw is another common bedding material suitable for rabbit cages. It provides a warm and cozy environment for your rabbit to burrow in. However, it’s essential to use straw sparingly as it can be less absorbent than other bedding options and may become soiled quickly. Make sure to monitor and replace straws regularly to maintain cleanliness.
Benefits:
- Comfortable Nesting: Straw provides a cozy and comfortable environment for your rabbit to nest and rest in.
- Warmth: It offers natural insulation, keeping your rabbit warm during colder seasons.
- Affordability: Straw is a cost-effective bedding option, readily available at pet stores or farm supply shops.
- Natural Odor Control: It helps control odors and absorbs moisture, promoting a cleaner living space for your rabbit.
How to Set Up:
- Spread Evenly: Lay a generous layer of straw evenly across the bottom of the rabbit cage.
- Monitor Moisture: Regularly check for damp spots and replace soiled straws to maintain cleanliness.
- Replace Periodically: While straw is long-lasting, it’s essential to replace it periodically to ensure your rabbit’s living space remains fresh and comfortable.
3. Paper-Based Bedding
Paper-based bedding, such as shredded newspaper or paper pellets, is an excellent option for rabbit cages. It’s highly absorbent, helping to control odors and moisture effectively. Additionally, paper-based bedding is relatively dust-free, making it suitable for rabbits with respiratory sensitivities. Look for bedding made from recycled paper to minimize environmental impact.
Benefits:
- High Absorbency: Paper-based bedding effectively absorbs moisture, keeping your rabbit’s cage dry and odor-free.
- Dust-Free: This bedding option is gentle on your rabbit’s respiratory system, making it suitable for rabbits with sensitivities.
- Environmentally Friendly: Made from recycled paper, it minimizes environmental impact while providing a comfortable surface for your rabbit.
- Easy to Replace: Simply remove soiled bedding and replace it with fresh material for a quick and hassle-free cleaning process.
How to Set Up:
- Spread Evenly: Lay the paper-based bedding evenly across the bottom of the cage to create a soft and uniform surface.
- Monitor Thickness: Ensure a sufficient layer for comfort, adjusting the thickness based on your rabbit’s preferences.
- Regular Checks: Monitor the bedding regularly, replacing any soiled areas promptly to maintain cleanliness and freshness.
- Dispose Responsibly: When disposing of used bedding, consider environmentally friendly methods, such as composting or recycling.
4. Wood Shavings
Wood shavings, such as aspen or pine, can also be used as bedding for rabbit cages. However, it’s crucial to select kiln-dried shavings to ensure they are free from harmful chemicals and toxins. Avoid cedar shavings as they contain aromatic oils that can be harmful to rabbits’ respiratory systems. Wood shavings provide a soft and comfortable surface for your rabbit to hop and rest on.
Benefits:
- Comfortable Surface: Wood shavings provide a soft and comfortable surface for your rabbit to hop and rest on.
- Absorbent: These shavings effectively absorb moisture, keeping the cage dry and preventing unpleasant odors.
- Safe Material: Opt for kiln-dried wood shavings to ensure they are free from harmful chemicals and safe for your rabbit’s health.
- Natural Feel: The natural texture of wood shavings mimics the environment rabbits encounter in the wild, promoting a sense of security.
How to Set Up:
- Select Kiln-Dried Shavings: Choose wood shavings that are specifically labeled as kiln-dried to ensure they are safe for your rabbit.
- Spread Evenly: Place a layer of wood shavings evenly across the bottom of the rabbit cage, ensuring a comfortable thickness.
- Avoid Cedar: Steer clear of cedar shavings, as the aromatic oils can be harmful to your rabbit’s respiratory system.
5. Fleece Blankets
Fleece blankets are a cozy and reusable bedding option for rabbit cages. They are soft, non-abrasive, and easy to clean, making them ideal for rabbits with sensitive skin. Fleece blankets can be washed and reused multiple times, reducing the need for frequent bedding replacements. Simply shake off any loose hay or debris and toss the blanket in the washing machine for easy maintenance.
Benefits:
- Soft and Cozy: Fleece blankets offer a plush and comfortable surface for your rabbit to hop, play, and rest on.
- Reusable: Easy to clean and maintain, fleece blankets can be washed and reused multiple times, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
- Gentle on Skin: Non-abrasive and suitable for rabbits with sensitive skin, providing a gentle and soothing environment.
How to Set Up:
- Lay Flat: Spread the fleece blanket evenly across the bottom of the rabbit cage, ensuring a smooth and comfortable surface.
- Secure Corners: Tuck or clip the corners of the blanket to the cage bars, preventing your rabbit from moving or burrowing underneath.
- Shake Off Debris: Regularly shake off loose hay or debris from the blanket to keep it clean.
- Machine Washable: When it’s time for cleaning, toss the fleece blanket in the washing machine for a quick and easy refresh.
6. Hay Cubes
Hay cubes are compressed blocks of hay that serve as both bedding and a food source for rabbits. They provide a comfortable surface for your rabbit to lounge on while also encouraging natural foraging behavior. Hay cubes are less messy than loose hay and can help reduce waste in the cage. They are available in various sizes and can be easily placed at the bottom of the cage for your rabbit to nibble on.
Benefits:
- Comfortable Lounging: Hay cubes provide a soft and comfortable surface for your rabbit to rest and lounge on.
- Encourages Foraging: These compressed hay blocks encourage natural foraging behavior, keeping your rabbit mentally stimulated.
- Reduced Mess: Compared to loose hay, hay cubes are less messy, helping to maintain a cleaner cage environment.
- Nutritional Value: Doubles as a food source, offering essential fiber and nutrients for your rabbit’s overall health.
- Reduced Waste: Minimizes hay wastage as rabbits can nibble on the cubes without scattering them all around the cage.
How to Set Up:
- Place Evenly: Spread hay cubes evenly across the bottom of the cage to create a comfortable layer.
- Monitor Consumption: Keep an eye on your rabbit’s nibbling habits to ensure they are not consuming the cubes excessively.
- Replace as Needed: Regularly replace soiled or nibbled hay cubes to maintain cleanliness and freshness in the cage.
- Combine with Other Bedding: Consider combining hay cubes with other bedding materials for added comfort and variety.
7. Corn Cob Bedding
Corn cob bedding is a natural and biodegradable option for rabbit cages. It’s made from ground corn cobs and is highly absorbent, helping to control odors and moisture effectively. Corn cob bedding is soft and comfortable for your rabbit to walk and rest on, providing a cozy environment.
Benefits:
- Absorbent: Corn cob bedding effectively absorbs moisture, keeping your rabbit’s cage dry and comfortable.
- Odor Control: This bedding option helps control odors, providing a fresh and pleasant environment for your rabbit.
- Soft and Comfortable: The soft texture of corn cob bedding ensures a cozy surface for your rabbit to walk, hop, and rest on.
- Biodegradable: Being made from ground corn cobs, this bedding is eco-friendly and breaks down naturally over time.
- Non-Toxic: Corn cob bedding is safe for your rabbit and free from harmful chemicals and toxins.
How to Set Up:
- Spread Evenly: Ensure an even layer of corn cob bedding at the bottom of the cage.
- Monitor Consumption: Keep an eye on your rabbit’s behavior to ensure they don’t consume the bedding excessively.
- Comfortable Nesting: Create a comfortable nesting area by adding extra corn cob bedding in your rabbit’s favorite spots.
8. Recycled Paper Pellets
Recycled paper pellets are an eco-friendly bedding option for rabbit cages. They are made from recycled paper materials and are highly absorbent, helping to keep the cage clean and dry. Recycled paper pellets are virtually dust-free, making them suitable for rabbits with respiratory sensitivities. They are available in pellet form, making them easy to spot clean, and replace as needed.
Benefits:
- Eco-Friendly: Made from recycled paper materials, these pellets are an environmentally conscious choice.
- Absorbent: Highly effective in absorbing moisture, keeping your rabbit’s cage clean and dry.
- Low Dust: Virtually dust-free, making it suitable for rabbits with respiratory sensitivities.
- Odor Control: Helps control odors, ensuring a fresh and pleasant environment for your furry friend.
- Easy to Use: Convenient pellet form makes spot cleaning and replacement a breeze.
How to Set Up:
- Prepare Cage: Ensure the rabbit’s cage is clean and dry before adding the recycled paper pellets.
- Even Distribution: Spread a layer of pellets evenly across the cage floor for optimal coverage.
- Monitor Consumption: Keep an eye on your rabbit to ensure they are not consuming the pellets.
- Spot Cleaning: Easily remove soiled pellets regularly for a consistently clean living space.
- Replace as Needed: Refresh the bedding by adding new pellets as the old ones break down over time.
9. Hay-Based Pellets
Hay-based pellets are compressed pellets made from a mixture of hay and recycled paper. They provide a soft and comfortable surface for your rabbit to rest on while also serving as a source of food and fiber. Hay-based pellets are highly absorbent and help control odors effectively.
Benefits:
- Comfortable Surface: Hay-based pellets provide a soft and comfortable surface for your rabbit to rest on, ensuring a cozy environment.
- Nutrient Source: Acting as a source of food and fiber, these pellets contribute to your rabbit’s overall nutritional needs.
- Absorbency: Highly absorbent, hay-based pellets help maintain a clean and dry cage, reducing the risk of odor buildup.
- Odor Control: Effectively controls odors, keeping the rabbit’s living space fresh and pleasant.
- Convenience: Available in pellet form, making them easy to clean and replace, simplifying the maintenance process.
How to Set Up:
- Even Distribution: Spread the hay-based pellets evenly across the bottom of the cage to create a uniform and comfortable layer.
- Regular Monitoring: Monitor the condition of the pellets regularly, replacing soiled areas to ensure a clean living space.
- Supplement with Loose Hay: For added comfort and nutrition, supplement hay-based pellets with loose hay to encourage natural foraging behavior.
10. Cardboard Bedding
Cardboard bedding is an inexpensive and readily available option for rabbit cages. It’s made from shredded cardboard materials and provides a soft and comfortable surface for your rabbit to rest on. Cardboard bedding is highly absorbent and helps control odors effectively. It’s easy to clean and replace, making it a convenient option for rabbit owners.
Benefits:
- Affordability: Cardboard bedding is a budget-friendly option, ensuring a comfortable living space for your rabbit without breaking the bank.
- Soft and Comfortable: The shredded cardboard provides a soft and cozy surface for your rabbit to rest and play on.
- Absorbent: This bedding effectively absorbs moisture, keeping the cage dry and odor-free.
- Readily Available: Easily accessible at local stores, making it a convenient option for rabbit owners.
How to Set Up:
- Spread Evenly: Lay the cardboard bedding evenly across the bottom of the rabbit cage.
- Monitor Consumption: Keep an eye on your rabbit’s behavior to ensure they are not attempting to consume the bedding.
- Regular Replacement: Change the cardboard bedding regularly to maintain cleanliness and a fresh environment for your rabbit.
What Materials Should I Avoid in The Rabbit Cage?
Choosing the right materials is essential to create a comfortable and secure environment. To ensure your rabbit’s health, there are certain materials you should avoid when setting up their habitat.
1. Cedar and Pine Bedding
Avoid using cedar and pine shavings as bedding material for your rabbit’s cage. While these wood types may seem like a natural choice, they release aromatic oils that can be harmful to your rabbit’s respiratory system. These oils may lead to respiratory issues, causing discomfort and potentially leading to more severe health problems over time.
2. Wire Flooring
Wire flooring might seem convenient for cleaning, but it can be harsh on your rabbit’s delicate feet. Rabbits have sensitive paw pads, and walking on wire flooring can lead to sore hocks, a painful condition where the fur and skin on the rabbit’s feet become irritated.
3. Plastic with Harmful Additives
Be cautious when using plastic materials in your rabbit’s cage, as some plastics contain harmful additives. These additives can leach into the environment and potentially harm your rabbit. Ensure that any plastic items, such as food bowls or toys, are made from safe, non-toxic materials.
4. Fabrics and Bedding with Loose Threads
Rabbits love to chew, and loose threads from fabrics or bedding can pose a choking hazard. Avoid using materials that can easily unravel or have small pieces that your rabbit might ingest.
FAQ
The ideal room temperature for rabbits is around 60-70°F (15-21°C). This range ensures their comfort and well-being. Avoid extremes, as temperatures below 50°F (10°C) or above 80°F (27°C) can be stressful for them.
Rabbits enjoy multi-level cages. They appreciate the opportunity to hop between different levels, providing mental stimulation and exercise. Multi-level setups also mimic their natural behavior, making them feel more at home. It’s a rabbit-friendly choice for a cage, offering both space and entertainment.
Clean your rabbit’s cage at least once a week. Remove droppings, old bedding, and uneaten food. Scrub the cage with a pet-safe cleaner, rinse thoroughly, and replace it with fresh bedding. Daily spot-cleaning is also advised to keep your furry friend’s living space tidy and hygienic.
