Tests have shown that cedar and pine can lead to respiratory problems in small animals. The liver can also be affected by the use of certain bedding in chinchilla cages. While there are certain processes that can limit the level of harmful substances in these types of shavings, it is a good idea to stick with woods that are known to be safe. Here are some of the reasons why it is important to pay attention to the bedding you buy.

Pine and cedar shavings contain phenol. This is the same compound that is found in cleaners around the house. Phenol is a germicide, and this is why it is good for odor control. This chemical is linked to respiratory problems in laboratory mice. When the mice are placed in cages with this type of bedding, there is an increased risk of inflammation of the lungs and throat. Asthma has been seen in small animals that are exposed. The liver is another area affected by unsafe wood shavings.

Animals housed in cages with cedar and pine show in increase level of enzymes in the liver. An elevated level of enzymes is caused by an increase in toxins present. Scientists have tested this in the laboratory and found that once the animals are switched to cages with other types of wood shavings, the level of enzymes will decrease. If the liver is continually pumping out an excess of enzymes, it can lead to liver failure.

One process that can decrease the level of phenol is kiln drying. No matter what type of bedding, it is good to use wood shavings that are kiln dried. Another way to lower the harmful substances is soaking the wood in a solvent. This is not very common when it comes to bedding. The best option is to use kiln dried aspen. It has been shown to be safe for animals.

Be picky when it comes to the chinchilla bedding you choose to put in your chinchilla cage. The phenol in cedar and pine has been linked to asthma and inflammation. The liver can also be damaged. With certain methods of treatment, pine and cedar can become safer, but kiln dried aspen is much better. The unsafe bedding is on the shelves at the pet store because it is very good at controlling odor, and the scientific evidence is seen as inconclusive, but experiments very strongly suggest that some wood shavings are better than others. For me, it is not a risk I am willing to take.

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2. 2 Chinchillas, 1 Chinchilla Cage
3. Things to Put in Your Chinchilla Cage