What kind of shavings are safe for rabbits?
These shavings are kiln-dried, produced in a way that makes them safe for rabbits. Pine and cedar shavings are commonly sold as litter, but they should be avoided since they can cause liver problems. Aspen should not be given to rabbits fresh from the tree though.
Why are pine shavings bad for rabbits?
The phenols in the softwood (pine and cedar) shavings causes changes in the liver's enzymes. Your rabbit's liver tries to remove the phenols by producing more of certain enzymes that destroy these chemicals; this is a natural part of you and your rabbit's defense against enviromental toxins.
Is wood safe for rabbits to eat?
There are some types of wood that are toxic to rabbits and other types that need to be dried before they can be given to rabbits. Even woods that are safe for rabbits should sometimes be avoided if they have been painted or varnished, such as furniture.
Are Aspen litter shavings safe for rabbits?
This odor, and the phenols that cause it, are not found to the same amount in hardwood shavings, thus hardwood shavings, aspen being one of the most common, are considered a much safer litter material and can be recommended for rabbits and other small animals.
What kind of wood do bunnies like?
Some bunnies like to chew heartily, while others prefer to shred. Logs, twigs and sticks in these types of wood are all suitable for your rabbit: apple, ash, birch, hawthorn, hazel, juniper, maple, pear, poplar, spruce and willow. He might also enjoy berry brambles. Is sawdust OK for rabbits?
What to use in rabbit cage?
Straw. Straw bedding makes for a great option to use in your rabbit's cage.
Do rabbits need sawdust?
The Bedding your Rabbit will need Sawdust is not recommended as the dust can often get into the eyes and nose and cause irritation. Dusty or old hay or straw can also cause the same problem so check it before you buy.
What happens when a rabbit eats pine shavings?
The phenols in the softwood (pine and cedar) shavings causes changes in the liver's enzymes. Your rabbit's liver tries to remove the phenols by producing more of certain enzymes that destroy these chemicals; this is a natural part of you and your rabbit's defense against enviromental toxins.
What is the best medicine for bunnies?
Other important drugs include dexamethasone, theophylline and all of the opioid painkillers, such as butorphanol, that are commonly used for bunnies.
What happens when you put pine phenols in a rabbit's liver?
The phenols in the softwood (pine and cedar) shavings causes changes in the liver's enzymes. Your rabbit's liver tries to remove the phenols by producing more of certain enzymes that destroy these chemicals; this is a natural part of you and your rabbit's defense against enviromental toxins. Our bodies always produces a low constant level of these protective agents; the problem occurs when constant exposure to pine phenols causes the rabbits to produce substantially larger quantities.
Can rabbits have cedar litter?
There are two major concerns with the use of cedar and pineshavings as litter. The first is the documented alterations in the liver's specialized tools, called enzymes, that can alter your rabbit's ability to handle standard drugs that your vet will use in the treatment of your pet.
Can pine needles be used as litter?
As a side issue, for those on the west coast, Ponderosa pine needles have been mentioned as alternative litter; this should be avoided at all costs. The material has caused spontaneous abortions in cattle and other domestic species and caused other hormonal disturbances.
Can rabbits eat cedar?
The use of pine and cedar as litter for house rabbits should be avoided. Other superior litters, such as recycled paper and aspen shavings are available and you should steer potential adopters and those who already have rabbits to these safer alternatives. There are two major concerns with the use of cedar and pineshavings as litter. The first is the documented alterations in the liver's specialized tools, called enzymes, that can alter your rabbit's ability to handle standard drugs that your vet will use in the treatment of your pet. The second is the relatively poorly characterized cancer risk.
What to do if your rabbit doesn't like to chew on wood?
Rabbits will all have their favorite types of branches and twigs. Different types of wood taste different, so if your rabbit doesn’t like to chew on one variety, try another. You can also check what type of material your furniture is made out of, so you can be sure the type of wood is safe if your rabbit chews on it.
What are some good things to give bunnies?
Just be sure that these are untreated if you want to give them to your rabbit to chew on. 2. Apple and pear. Apple and pear trees are safe for rabbits. They can have twigs, branches, or leaves fresh from a tree if you have one in your yard. Apple sticks can be commonly bought in bundles to give to rabbits.
What are rabbit toys made of?
Many rabbit toys are made with willow twigs. These are often a lot of fun for rabbits to chew on.
Why do rabbits chew?
Why do rabbits need to chew? Chewing is mainly a behavior in rabbits because it helps them to keep their teeth trimmed down. Since their teeth grow continuously, it’s important to a rabbit’s health that they always have something to chew on. In the wild, rabbits have plenty of roots, twigs, and bark to chew through, but as house pets, we need to give our rabbits more options.
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What is the best toy for bunnies?
Maple. Some bunny-safe toys that are sold online and in pet stores are made of maple. They are also sold in bundles of sticks for your rabbit. This is a slightly sweeter wood, making it a more tempting type of chew toy for most rabbits.
Can rabbits eat pinecones?
Some tree branches are only safe for rabbits if they have been left to dry out completely for a number of days. Pinecones are also only safe to give rabbits after they have been dried out.
What is comfort for a rabbit?
A part of comfort is your pet’s security. He must feel secure inside its cage, and thus, the material should offer comfort and security. Whether a rabbit is in captivity or the wild, it will naturally be wary of predators. A soft and comfortable substrate will help them feel safe and secure.
What to use to keep bunnies warm?
Straw. Straw be dding is great inside your rabbit’s space. Straw is edible and will also help keep rabbits warm. Consider using a straw if your pets are in an outdoor enclosure. Straw is also nice to nibble and, like hay, can help control the overgrowth of teeth and will keep your pet regular.
What to do if your rabbit smells like a cage?
The environment – oftentimes, pet owners are concerned about the smell of pet cages. Taking care of a pet rabbit is no exception. Using scented bedding or shaving may be the first thing on your mind to control the smell, but you must think twice.
What drugs can cause liver enzymes to be high in rabbits?
Some of the most common drugs affected by excessive liver enzymes are xylarine and ketamine, which are forms of injectable anesthetics.
How hot should a rabbit cage be?
The climate from where you live – pet rabbits should be cared for in a place where there are 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit temperature. The bedding or substrate to use must be able to help keep the cage temperature constant. Also, you must keep the cage away from direct sunlight, rain, wind, and snow.
Why do rabbits eat hay?
Hay is the most widely recommended for rabbits because it is safe to eat and offers a nice and comfortable place for your pets to stay in. Hay is very important in a rabbit’s diet too. It improves digestion and keeps your pet regular. Chewing on hay daily can also help maintain your pet’s teeth.
Do rabbits lay on their bedding?
Take note that your pet rabbit will likely stand on its bedding material all day. It will also likely lie down on the material, eat and poop on it. Therefore it’s important to have a bedding material with good absorption qualities and must also be soft to lie on. A part of comfort is your pet’s security.
Are wood shavings safe for budgies?
Wood shavings possess both absorbent and disinfectant properties, and are the most commonly employed nesting substrate in the world.
6 reasons to confirm that wood shavings are safe
1. The median lethal dose (LD50) of synthetic phenol to end the life of a 35g animal is 3mg orally or 5mg dermally.
The myth that wood shaving affects budgie growth
Another widely held opinion is that wood shaving does not kill them, “it only inhibits their development and growth”, if you believe in this opinion, I recommend that you visit the WBO website, see who has won the BIS (Best in Show – Grand Champion), CC (Colour Certificates) and World Championships over the years and find out what substrate they use..
Wood shavings and sawdust are not the same
You must bear in mind that wood shavings and sawdust are not the same, although both come from wood, the sawdust is not recommended for use as a substrate, although it is very absorbent should never be used because being dust can obstruct the nostrils of the budgie, suffocate or create serious respiratory problems for them and their parents.
Is Pine safe for budgies?
Pine and spruce are known as medicinal plants, for example cough preparations contain some components, and it is also used as an liniment. Contain essential oils and resins.
The half-truth
Indeed, a high concentration of synthetic phenol can end the life of any living being, but reaching such levels is simply impossible in a nest, not even by using fresh chip (which should not be done because it has too much moisture and resin).
Should I Use Cedar Shavings For Rabbits?
No, you should not use cedar shavings for rabbits. Rabbit owners have known for years that using untreated cedar shavings is a bad idea.
Is Cedar Toxic To Rabbits?
Yes, cedar is toxic to bunnies. The most well-known sort of wood that is hazardous to rabbits is cedar. This is one of the species that should be kept fully away from rabbits.
Is Cedar Safe For Rabbits To Chew?
Some rabbits enjoy chewing vigorously, while others prefer to shred. Apple, ash, hazel, juniper, maple, spruce, and willow logs, twigs, and sticks are all good for your rabbit to chew.
Is Red Cedar Bedding Safe For Rabbits?
No, red cedar bedding is not safe for rabbits. Cedar bedding is likewise not recommended for rabbits. Many people feel that putting cedar chips in your rabbit’s environment might be harmful to its health.
Do Rabbits Like Cedar Chips?
Yes, rabbits like cedar chips. Although cedar is safe, big chunks should be avoided. This is especially if your bunny digs and chews.
Is Kiln-Dried Cedar Safe For Rabbits?
No, kiln-dried cedar is not safe for rabbits. Pine and cedar should not be used as litter or bedding for domestic bunnies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Aspen bedding is the better option among wood bedding alternatives. The bedding is dust-free and odorless. Also, it does not contain any aromatic oils or phenols that might be toxic to rabbits.
