What Kind Of Bedding Is Best For Gerbils

Providing your gerbils with the right bedding is essential for their comfort, health, and well-being. Different types of bedding offer varying levels of absorbency, breathability, and insulation, so it's important to choose the right one for your pets.

In this article, we'll explore the essential aspects of choosing the best bedding for gerbils, including types of bedding, absorbency, breathability, and dustiness. We'll also provide tips on how to choose the right bedding for your gerbils and how to keep it clean and fresh.

Types of Bedding

There are several different types of bedding available for gerbils, including:

Paper-based bedding: This is the most common type of bedding for gerbils and is made from recycled paper or newspaper. It's absorbent, breathable, and relatively inexpensive.
Aspen shavings: Aspen shavings are a good choice for gerbils because they're soft, absorbent, and provide good insulation. However, they can be dusty, so it's important to choose a dust-free brand.
Pine shavings: Pine shavings are another absorbent and insulating bedding option. However, they can be dusty and may contain harmful chemicals, so it's important to choose a brand that is specifically designed for gerbils.
Corn cob bedding: Corn cob bedding is a good choice for gerbils because it's absorbent, breathable, and dust-free. However, it can be more expensive than other types of bedding.

Absorbency

Absorbency is an important factor to consider when choosing bedding for gerbils. Gerbils produce a lot of urine, so it's important to choose a bedding that can absorb and retain moisture without becoming soggy.

Paper-based bedding and corn cob bedding are both good choices for absorbency. Aspen shavings and pine shavings can also be absorbent, but they may need to be changed more frequently.

Breathability

Breathability is another important factor to consider. Gerbils need to be able to breathe easily through their bedding, so it's important to choose a bedding that is not too dense.

Paper-based bedding, aspen shavings, and corn cob bedding are all good choices for breathability.

Dustiness

Dustiness is a concern with some types of bedding. Dust can irritate gerbils' lungs and eyes, so it's important to choose a bedding that is dust-free.

Paper-based bedding and corn cob bedding are both dust-free. Aspen shavings and pine shavings can be dusty, but there are dust-free brands available.