If you’re wondering what to put in the bottom of your rabbit’s cage, here are some suggestions: Sisal rugs, brown paper bags, or cardboard are all great options for bedding.
Wood shavings, however, are not suitable for rabbits. The fumes from certain wood species are poisonous to rabbits. Pine and cedar wood shavings are poisonous, but aspen wood shavings are safe for rabbits.
Paper pulp bedding
You can use recycled brown paper bags or cardboard for bedding. You can even shred a plain cardboard box or two. Cardboard shavings are a great option for bedding since they are biodegradable and free of dust.
Moreover, you can reuse them in a second life. You can even shred them yourself by cutting up envelopes, cardboard boxes, or delivery boxes. Just remember to take out the staples and glue before recycling them.
The materials that you choose for the bedding should be suitable for your rabbit’s climate, as they can reduce dampness and odor. While wood pellets are a good option, they can be quite heavy in larger cages.
Additionally, wood pellets will turn into dust if they get wet. Paper pellets are made from recycled paper, which makes them more environmentally-friendly and lighter than wood pellets.
Sisal rugs
A natural mat like a sisal rug in the bottom of a rabbit cage is a wonderful addition to any animal’s environment. Sisal is a plant-based fiber that is commonly used as rope and twine. It is also used to make bags, paper, and dartboards.
As a plant-based rope, sisal is safe for rabbits. The fibers in sisal are strong and absorbent, so your pet rabbit will enjoy playing in its cage with them.
In addition to sisal rugs, you can place a rabbit mat in the bottom of their cage. The mat will prevent your rabbit from scratching the floor, which is dangerous for their tiny feet.
You can also place horse stall mats or foam puzzle mats on the bottom of the rabbit cage. While they are safe for your pet, remember that they are not the best option if your rabbit is especially destructive.
Wood slats
While wood is commonly used in rabbit hutches, it is not always easy to find safe wood that is not treated. If you want to use wood as a cage floor, make sure it is untreated, as it will smell more.
You should also watch out for wood that is chewed, as rabbits have a tendency to chew through wood. Wood slats are also not the safest material for rabbits.
Wire floors are not the best option for small breeds. Wire that has 1/2″-sized holes is not conducive to the natural foot mechanics of rabbits. A thick bed of compliant surface allows the rabbit’s weight to be spread over its foot instead of hitting the cage floor.
While wood shavings and paper bedding might work in theory, rabbits kick around and dig in them. Consequently, they end up walking on hard plastic floors.
Plastic grids
Rabbits can be a little messy, especially if they have to spend their whole day on solid floors or litter. They should be able to stand on a soft surface and have enough support for their feet.
A cage with solid floors and litter can make a mess and be very dangerous to the rabbit’s health. It can also lead to a scald, sore hocks, and parasites. Plastic grids in the bottom of the cage can also keep the bedding out of the way and help keep your rabbit’s fur clean.
Unlike other animals, rabbits’ feet are extremely sensitive. The flooring in their cage must mimic their natural habitat. If you place plastic or tile in their cages, they will become sore.
It’s best to choose a natural material to prevent sore hocks. If you use wood or tile in the bottom of a rabbit cage, choose a mat to provide a comfortable surface. Another alternative is to install a solid floor.
Hay
Providing your rabbit with fresh hay is essential for its healthy diet. Rabbits can chew on straw and hay, and it helps to prevent boredom.
Besides its fresh smell, hay can also keep your rabbit busy, which will in turn reduce the risk of boredom. The following are some tips for choosing the right hay for your rabbit. The right hay will have long stalks of grass and green hints.
Wood shavings: Another common type of bedding for rabbits is wood shavings. These pellets are compressed sawdust, and they are harder than straw. While many rabbits enjoy the scent of cedar, the fragrance can be hazardous to their respiratory systems.
Also, wood oils can irritate their skin and eyes. A better choice for bedding is recycled cardboard or wood shavings, which can be composted or recycled once used. Papers with a smooth texture are best, as they do not contain sharp edges, which could lead to blockages and a poor environment for your rabbit.
Wood shavings
You can make your own bedding for rabbits by using brown paper bags, cardboard, or paper pulp. However, wood shavings should not be the only type of bedding you use for your pet.
Some kinds are toxic, such as cedar and pine, and some are not even safe for your pet. Wood pellets are a good alternative to wood shavings and are environmentally friendly. Wood pellets are also highly absorbent, making them an ideal choice for a rabbit’s cage.
Besides wood shavings, your pet rabbit should have high-fiber food and a firm surface. Wood shavings may be too soft for your rabbit, and you can choose a cheaper alternative.
Rabbits are naturally soft and like to snuggle, so you might need to provide a few extra blankets during winter to keep warm. Remember, your rabbit is likely to overheat if you put too many blankets or other soft materials in the bottom of the cage.
Cedar wood
While cedar is safe for most animals, it should never be used as bedding for your rabbits. Cedar wood contains toxic compounds that may cause liver or kidney damage, and rabbits should not ingest cedar shavings.
Also, wood containing cedar should not have a strong cedar smell because it may contain high levels of phenols. Cedar wood is also toxic for rabbits if it is rotting, so make sure that you keep it out of reach of your bunny.
Another good way to make a floor for your rabbit is by installing a woven or rubber stable matting. You can also install a shelf to give your rabbit more floor space.
Place shelf brackets or notch the wood supports to prevent them from moving. You can also get wooden supports, such as small shelves, to support your rabbit’s cage. If you’re not an expert in carpentry, you can hire a local carpenter.
Hi! I’m Lala, and I’m the owner of RabbitLala.com. When I’m not writing about rabbits, I enjoy traveling, trying out new recipes and enjoying my hobbies.
I’ve always loved animals, so it was no surprise when I started a website devoted to one specific animal: rabbits! Rabbits are amazing creatures, and there’s so much to learn about them.
I love traveling and trying out new recipes, and my hobbies include crocheting and painting.