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 type of wood shavings is safe for bunnies?
Instead it is better to use hardwood shavings, such as aspen, or opt for a paper-based litter instead. Pine that has been kiln dried and used for furniture and construction is safe for rabbits.
What type of bedding is best for rabbits?
The best bedding for rabbits can help to keep your pet healthy for longer. A rabbit's bedding must keep them safe, comfortable, and warm. Rabbits often eat their bedding, so it cannot be toxic. Shredded paper, Aspen shreds, specialist litter or pellets, and hay are all safe options.
Is sawdust bad for rabbits?
Wood products Sawdust has commonly been used in the past as an absorbent layer in rabbits' sleeping areas. This not advisable; sawdust can irritate the skin and lungs because of the oils/phenols contained in the wood. These can be absorbed into the rabbit's internal organs and cause low grade liver inflammation.
What do you put at the bottom of a bunny cage?
But if your cage or enclosure has a wire or plastic floor, then you'll need to take measures to protect your bunnies' feet. Cardboard, hay, and paper make excellent flooring for a cage or hutch. You probably already have some in your home right now. Wood bedding, marmoleum, and fleece work well, too.
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.
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.
What kind of wood do rabbits like?
Apple sticks can be commonly bought in bundles to give to rabbits. They often have a distinct flavor, making them a favorite toy among many rabbits. 4. Kiln-dried aspen. Aspen is generally the most recommended wood to use as a litter material for rabbits since it is absorptive and controls odors.
What plants are safe for rabbits to chew?
Some rabbits like to chew and tunnel under blankets, so it’s good to know that cotton is safe for them. Branches and twigs from fruit bushes, such as raspberry and blackberry plants, are safe for rabbits to chew on. 10. Raspberry and blackberry bushes.
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.
How do you know if a rabbit is active?
It’s easy to tell when a rabbit is active when they zoom and binky around the room , but that’s not the only way to know your rabbit is happy and content in your home. You can watch your rabbit's...
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.
Is cedar wood safe for rabbits?
It is very common for me to see cedar hutches being sold, for example, even though this type of wood is bad for rabbits. Likewise, it’s best to check what kind of wood is used for your rabbit’s chew toys to make sure that they are actually safe. You also want to avoid toys that use a lot of glue or use a type of paint that is not safe for rabbits.
How to keep rabbits away from baseboards?
This means taking steps to rabbit proof your house. You can keep your rabbit away from baseboards by covering the perimeter of the room with fencing. If your rabbit chews on furniture, you can wrap cat scratcher mats around the wooden legs to keep your rabbits away. I like this type of enclosure best.
Why do rabbits chew on wood?
Rabbits have a natural instinct to chew on wooden objects because it keeps their teeth from growing too long. Rabbit teeth are open rooted, which means they will continuously grow. Chewing on wood and eating other high-fiber foods, is necessary for keeping rabbit teeth healthy.
What are some plants that are poisonous to rabbits?
They are mostly characterized by their shiny and spiky leaves. Other plants that may be in the house around holidays that you should keep away from your rabbit include mistletoe and ivy plants.
How do you know if a rabbit is active?
It’s easy to tell when a rabbit is active when they zoom and binky around the room , but that’s not the only way to know your rabbit is happy and content in your home. You can watch your rabbit's...
Can you put a hutch in a rabbit exercise pen?
A hutch that is made from toxic wood should be taken away. You could even take this chance to set your rabbit up with a rabbit exercise pen enclosure instead. If your rabbit has any kind of toxic litter or toys, these should also be taken away and replaced with safer options.
Is it safe to paint a rabbit?
Toys: Unfortunately there are toys that are marketed for rabbits that are not actually safe for them. It’s always best to check what kind of wood is being used. Baseboards: While the type of wood that’s used for baseboards is not usually toxic to rabbits, the paint is not good for them.
Can rabbits eat cedar?
Unfortunately some types of wood pellet (pine and cedar) are not safe for rabbits and can commonly cause liver damage. Furniture: Household furniture can be made from many different types of wood, so if your rabbit regularly chews on anything, it’s best to make sure it’s safe.
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 is the smell of pine shavings?
Image Source. The dangerous components of pine shavings are known as phenols. These are naturally occurring volatile chemicals found in wood. You can instantly smell phenol when you open a bag of cedar or pine shavings; this is the aromatic smell that most people even find refreshing in pine.
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 warm should a rabbit 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 .
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.
What is the best material for a dog blanket?
Another popular material is fleece. This is a soft cushion that can absorb water and moisture. But while this is soft and comfortable, it is also high-maintenance and should be washed often. You must have at least three or more fleece blankets for your pet.
